Unit 2: Structures and Mechanisms - Form and Function

Humans build structures to meet specific needs. In doing so, they must consider many factors, including not only the functions the structures must perform but also the resources available to build them, the intended lifetime of the structures, and the impact of the structures on the environment. In Grade 7, students will continue to learn about the effects of forces that act on and within different structural forms. They will investigate how different structural forms support or withstand loads by designing, building, and testing structures, using increasingly sophisticated techniques. Other factors that affect a structure’s functioning, such as type of structure and centre of gravity, will also be explored. It is necessary to provide opportunities for students with special education needs to participate in these or comparable activities. As students design, build, and test their structures to determine what loads they can support, it is important that they do it in a manner that ensures their personal safety and the safety of others. This includes understanding why it is important to properly dispose of the remains of broken structures and to protect faces and feet from falling objects.

Summative 1: Structural Forms and Forces: Overall Expectation(s): 3. Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between structural forms and the forces that act on and within them (7s22).
Summative 2: The Nature of the Challenge: Overall Expectation(s): 3. Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between structural forms and the forces that act on and within them (7s22). 2. Design and construct a variety of structures, and investigate the relationship between the design and function of these structures and the forces that act on them (7s21).
Summative 3: Elements of Good Design: Overall Expectation(s): 1. Analyse personal, social, economic, and environmental factors that need to be considered in designing and building structures and devices (7s20).

Notes/Handouts:

  1. Structures PowerPoint
  2. Structures Unit Handout
  3. Mechanical Advantage Handout
  4. Exploring Forces Subtasks
    Centre of Gravity and Symmetry
    Forces
    Performace of a Structure
  5. Structure Projects - These projects challenge you to build structures that are tall, strong, and sturdy!
  6. Mechanical Systems Unit from Edquest.ca
  7. Graphic Dictionary of Forces Concepts (Amazing!)
  8. A Design and Technology Site - This website contains numerous information sheets and exercises to enhance the study, understanding and teaching of DESIGN and TECHNOLOGY.
Online Unit: Structures