Transitopia

Hydropower, or hydroelectric power, is one of the oldest and largest sources of renewable energy, which uses the natural flow of moving water to generate electricity. Hydropower currently accounts for 37% of total U.S. renewable electricity generation and about 7% of total U.S. electricity generation.

https://www.energy.gov/eere/water/hydropower-basics

TRANSITOPIA

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Present

Before the Activity:

Prepare Materials: Gather all low-fidelity prototyping materials (cardboard, tape, rubber bands, etc.) and ensure there are enough for each group.
Set Up Randomization: Write the names of the simple machines on slips of paper for students to draw from a hat.
Introduce the Challenge: Explain the goal of transporting the ping-pong ball from point A to point B using two simple machines.

During the Activity:

Demonstrate and practice proper tool use (cutting away from the body, handling hot glue safely, and keeping workspaces organized).
Facilitate Brainstorming: Encourage students to sketch multiple ideas and consider how different machines can interact.
Provide Guidance: Walk around to check on teams, ask probing questions, and ensure they’re using the two required machines effectively.
Monitor Construction: Ensure safe tool use (hot glue, box cutters) and help troubleshoot if a team gets stuck.

After the Activity:

Testing & Reflection: Have students rotate through and test each group's obstacle course, observing how well it functions.
Group Discussion: Ask teams to share their design choices, what worked, and what challenges they faced.
Document & Celebrate: Take photos/videos of the obstacle courses in action and encourage students to reflect on how they improved their design thinking