Physics Using Parabolas to Design a Bridge

The Parabolic Bridge Project: Use of Parabolas in Bridge Design Pre-Project Educational Requirements Students must have knowledge of the following algebraic concepts: • solving quadratic equations and inequalities by factoring and through the use of the quadratic formula • graphing both quadratic equations and quadratic inequalities I. Technological Component Kinds of Bridges http://bridgepros.com/learning_center/ Beam Arch Suspension Pontoon I. Technological Component How Bridges Work http://dmoz.org/Kids_and_Teens/School_Time/ Science/Technology/Buildings_and_Bridges/ Article by Michael Morrissey http://www.howstuffworks.com/bridge.htm click on arch bridges, suspension bridges I. Technological Component Flaws in Bridge Building article by Michael Morrissey http://www.howstuffworks.com/bridge.htm • additional bridge forces • use of iron • solid surfaces I. Technological Component Engineering as a Career http://www.teachingtools.com/Slinky/engineers.html I. Technological Component West Point Bridge Designer Students as Engineers use computer software to design and test bridge stability Components: Arch or Suspension Types of metal Thickness of metal Stability Expense I. Technological Component Review quadratic inequalities, which would be suitable for use in the design of a suspension or arch bridge. • http://matti.usu.edu/nlvm/nav/frames_asid_ 109_g_4_t_2.html?open=activities II. Creative Component Each student must choose one of the following: a) Build a Model of a Bridge OR b) Create a 3-D Poster of a Bridge II. Creative Component A) Build a 3-D Model • • • • Guidelines Type: Arch or Suspension Bridge Materials: toothpicks, popsicle sticks, wire, glue Required Length: 1 foot Required Width: min. 2 ½ in. up to a max. of 6 in. II. Creative Component B) Create a 3-D poster Guidelines • Create a 3-D poster of an arch or suspension bridge • Materials: 1 full-size sheet of poster paper • Requirements: a) a quadratic inequality representative of the bridge design, b) colorful, c) attached decoration to create 3-D effect such as moss, pebbles, etc. II. Creative Component Finished products submitted by the following 9th grade students: Tyler Fields Mary Beth Nichols Logan Lovvorn 3-D Bridge Model Designed by Tyler Fields 3-D Bridge Poster Designed by Mary Beth Nichols 3-D Bridge Model Designed by Logan Lovvorn