Balsa+Wood+Single+Panel

** Problem Solving Activity: Balsa Wood Strength **
 * [[image:Balsa.gif]] || ** DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT **

** Compression Strength Testing ** ** Single Panel ** ||
 * //Balsa Tree// ||  ||

Students will form teams and identify the structural integrity of balsa wood by performing several tests and sharing results to accumulate data to design a balsa cube.
 * __ PROBLEM / OBJECTIVE: __**

Test several different balsa wood panels. Each team will create and test 3 different panel using both triangulation and vertical posts.
 * __ ACTIVITY: __**

(The designer of this activity has the option to change any or all parts as needed to control, enhance, and foster learning.)
 * __ SPECIFICATIONS: __**


 * 1) Draw to scale three variations of side panels that may be used in your cube design. The maximum amount of wood is 26 inches.
 * 2) Using the pressure testing apparatuses test different variation of balsa wood panels and determine the weight that each panel can withstand.
 * 3) Use the knowledge you accumulated in the previous test to guide you in your design.
 * 4) Place each panel in the apparatus and test for strength. Sketch each of your panels on the chart and the weight held.
 * 5) Complete the chart and turn in for group. MARK ON THE SKETCH WERE THE PANEL BROKE.
 * Resources: ** Balsa Wood, Exacta Knife, Glue


 * __ ASSESSMENT: __**

**Novice** || **2** **Apprentice** || **3** **Proficient** || **4** **Distinguish** ||
 * **CRITERIA** || **1**
 * **Specifications** || Does not meet specifications || Meets some only some requirements || Meets all specifications || Specifications exceeded ||
 * **Effort** || Little time spent focused on work || Insufficient time spent on activity || Organized and used time well || Effort goes beyond class expectations ||
 * **Concepts**
 * Understanding** || Limited understanding of concepts || Shows some basic but incomplete under-standing of concepts || Shows a very good understanding of concepts || Shows a deep comprehension of concepts ||
 * **Craftsmanship**
 * Appearance** || Messy; Work sloppy and rushed, tools not used properly. || Some care taken with appearance; most tools used properly || Carefully made using appropriate tools || Work is very neat and attractive; excellent use of all tools ||
 * **Performance**
 * Effectiveness** || Not effective, does not meet performance goals || Somewhat effective, but does not meet goals || Effective presentation, meets goals || Very effective, exceeds goals ||
 * ** 50 point activity ** || 35-37 || 38-42 || 43-45 || 46-50 ||