Real World Problem Solving

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-zczJXSxnw

Tacoma Narrows Bridge in Tacoma, Washington.

Opened to traffic on July 1, 1940 Collapsed on November 7, 1940 – now

serves as artificial reef in Pugent Sound. At the time, 3rd longest suspension bridge

behind Golden Gate Bridge in California and George Washington Bridge in New York.

Engineers test the materials used in construction of buildings, roads, bridges, etc, for durability, strength, and safety.

Testing models gives them the information in a manageable, cost efficient manner. Spaghetti is cheaper than steel, right?

Our activity will be similar to procedures used in testing the strength of bridge beams.

Remember last year’s test of endurance through jumping jacks?

We’ve thrown Barbie from the stairwell… We’ve determined how many trout will be

in the pond next year… ….but today will be different. There will

be no pre-made handouts to help you. You will have to work with your group to problem-solve this one without my guidance!

Will a box of uncooked spaghetti (minus the box) support the weight of a textbook?

Sorry… I’m short on supplies. Each group only gets 20 pieces of spaghetti. If there are any other supplies that you think you might need, ask. I’ll see what I have.

When you have answered the question, I will need a detailed, written explanation of how your group solved this problem. DUE NEXT FRIDAY.

There will be some class time tomorrow for you to complete this assignment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tO9KAlzxJVg