One of the units we will be exploring in Term One is "Forces Acting on Structures". We will be looking at structures that are artificial (human made) and natural. Two of the forces that engineers and scientists study when they design a structure are compression and tension. To study the interaction of these forces on structures we will be building a variety of paper structures, and pasta and marshmallow structures. On our "Community Walks" we will be observing and sketching both natural and artificial structures.
Here are some links for students who are interested in learning more about forces and structures:
Mrs. Bader's Forces Lab
http://mrsbader.com/pdf/8-2-SystemsinAction/forces.swf
A Visual Dictionary of Forces (Forces, Levers, Struts and Ties)
http://www.diydoctor.org.uk/projects/forces.htm
