PS4.C: Information Technologies and Instrumentation

In this video Paul Andersen explains how humans use information technology and instrumentation to better understand their surrounds.  Technologies (including X-rays, computers, and phones) use electromagnetic waves to improve the lives of humans.  A teaching progression K-12 is also included.

CCC6: Structure and Function

Paul Andersen explains how the structure of objects are related to their function and vice versa.  He begins with a quick quiz on bicycle construction and ends with a progression of teaching for students grades K-12.  He also explains how the scale of an object will determine the function studied.

SEP8: Obtaining, Evaluating and Communicating Information

Scientists and Engineers spend over half of their working day reading, evaluating and producing text.  Therefore it is important that we produce students that have a high level of scientific literacy.  Students normally struggle with scientific reading due to the high level of jargon and multiple modes of presentation (i.e. graphs, images, data).  We can help our students become more scientifically literate by having them consume and produce scientific text from K to 12.  Several strategies for teaching this progression (e.g. adapted primary literature and mini-posters) are included.