In many recent projects, we have taken on the challenge of developing three-dimensional learning tasks and lessons. We often start with a close reading of the NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards). The instructional designers then meet with subject matter experts to design a task with learning outcomes that measure specific performance expectations. In the example below, the task was designed to meet these three-dimensional learning goals.
We have already blogged about using the PhET Skate Park simulation to develop a performance task. We decided to take another stab at it, as a proof of concept for a three dimensional learning task. This task is a bit more challenging than our first one.
Please watch the video and then try the performance task. We’d love to hear your feedback!
Energy Skate Park Performance Task
Students built a radical jump for their school’s skate park. However, skaters were getting injured even when they successfully landed the jump.
You have been asked to make the jump safe. The video below explains how to set up a simulation to investigate.
Your Task
Click “Playground” in the PhET® simulation below and set up a jump as shown in the video. Remember to set friction to zero and always release the skateboarder from a height of 5 meters.
Then modify the setup to make the jump safe, where “safe” is defined as converting less than 1/4 of the total energy into thermal energy.
Use your observations of the skateboarder’s motion to explain why reducing thermal energy transfer reduces the risk of injury.
Credits:
The Skate Park simulation was developed by PhET.
PhET Interactive Simulations, University of Colorado Boulder, http://phet.colorado.edu.
The performance task was developed and designed by Victory Productions, Inc.
© 2018 Victory Productions, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
