Dear Elissa,
My name is Ramsey Musallam, and I have designed the workshop you will be leading from June 24 to June 27. Below you will find resources to ensure your facilitation is both smooth and well-informed. You will also find a copy of this email in the "Materials" section of the workshop curriculum.
Please visit the following link for detailed workshop content and materials: Workshop Curriculum and Resources
Note: Project the complete URL for students to type in: https://wovenlearning.org/workshop-menu/shastaphysics/
Workshop Content Overview:
Part I: Roller Coaster Physics
Day 1: Build
Introduction to potential and kinetic energy:
- Focus on the principles of potential and kinetic energy.
- Encourage precision in cutting foam evenly and careful use of masking tape to avoid running out.
- Highlight the importance of maximizing potential energy to achieve maximum kinetic energy.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Blade Design: Ensure students cut foam evenly for smoother tracks.
- Material Usage: Advise using masking tape sparingly to prevent shortages.
- Energy Principles: Emphasize maximizing potential energy at the highest points to enhance kinetic energy.
Day 2: Test
Testing and optimizing roller coasters:
- Emphasize the importance of adjustments based on test results.
- Discuss the principles of trial and error in engineering.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Track Smoothness: Ensure tracks are smooth for optimal performance.
- Structural Integrity: Check for any weaknesses in the structure and reinforce as needed.
Part II: Earthquake-Proof Engineering
Day 1: Build
Exploring structural engineering and stability:
- Emphasize the principles of structural engineering and stability.
- Highlight the requirement for structures to be free-standing without gum drops stuck to the table.
- Encourage the use of triangles for strong, stable designs.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Structure Stability: Remind students that structures must be free-standing and cannot be attached to the table.
- Structural Integrity: Suggest using triangles as they provide good structural integrity.
- Balance and Weight Distribution: Advise on balance and weight distribution to improve stability.
Day 2: Test
Testing and optimizing earthquake-proof buildings:
- Emphasize the importance of adjustments based on test results.
- Discuss the principles of trial and error in engineering.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Structural Stability: Ensure the structure can withstand simulated earthquakes.
- Design Adjustments: Encourage redesigns based on test outcomes to improve stability.
Action Required: Please confirm your readiness by replying to all on this email thread by June 17 after reviewing the provided information. Feel free to ask any questions or share concerns you might have.
For non-urgent inquiries, please email me directly at ramsey@wovenlearning.org. I will reply within 24 hours. For urgent or time-sensitive inquiries, please call or text me at (415) 260-2581, and I will provide support as soon as possible.
I look forward to our collaboration and hope you find the experience enjoyable and rewarding.
Best regards,
Ramsey Musallam