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Engineered Sports      print | email
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(Full teacher resource documents are included in the PDF)

Lesson Focus
Lesson focuses on how the principles of aerospace engineering have impacted golf ball design, along with equipment used in other sports. Students analyze the use of dimples on golf balls, and work as a team of engineers to determine whether adding dimples to airplanes would increase fuel efficiency for the airline industry. They also explore the physics of bounce as it relates to several sports balls.

Lesson Synopsis

The Engineered Sports activity explores the concept of how aerospace engineering has impacted sports, specifically exploring the design of golf balls. Students learn about how industry employs engineering professionals to take products to the next level. They work in teams to explore the physics of bounce, determine the application of aerospace principles to aircraft design, present their plans to the class, and evaluate class recommendations and findings.

Age Levels:   11-18

Objectives
  • Learn about how engineering has impacted sports equipment designs.
  • Learn about aerodynamics, drag, and air friction.
  • Learn about the physics of bounce.
  • Learn about engineering problem solving.

Anticipated Learner Outcomes

As a result of this activity, students should develop an understanding of:
  • aerodynamics
  • physics of bounce
  • impact of engineering and technology on society
  • engineering problem solving
  • teamwork



Lesson Activities

Students learn about how engineering is continually applied to improve products manufactured by every industry. Students work in teams to evaluate current golf ball design, determine whether engineering enhancements to golf ball design can be applied to the aircraft industry. They also explore the physics of bounce.

Resources/Materials

  • Teacher Resource Documents (attached)
  • Student Worksheets (attached)
  • Student Resource Sheets (attached)


Alignment to Curriculum Frameworks

Curriculum alignment sheet is included in PDF.

Categories

Engineering Design, Motion And Forces, Properties Of Materials

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