⁣Lesson Plan: Tensegrity Floating Table from PVC and Chain

⁣Lesson Plan: Tensegrity Floating Table from PVC and Chain

Grade Level: 9-12

Subject: Physics and Engineering

Duration: 90 minutes

Common Core Standards:
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.9-12.3: Follow precisely a complex multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks.
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-12.2: Write informative/explanatory texts, including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/experiments, or technical processes.

Lesson Objectives:
- Students will understand the concept of tensegrity and its applications in engineering and design.
- Students will learn about the properties of PVC and chain materials and their role in creating a floating table using tensegrity principles.
- Students will be able to explain the steps and techniques used to construct the tensegrity floating table.

Materials:
- PVC pipes (various lengths and diameters)
- PVC connectors (elbows, tees, crosses)
- PVC glue
- Chains (steel or metal)
- Measuring tape
- Hacksaw or PVC cutter
- Sandpaper
- Level
- Drill and screws (optional)
- Decorative tabletop material (wood, glass, etc.)

Procedure:
1. Begin the lesson by introducing the concept of tensegrity and its significance in engineering and design.
2. Show students examples of tensegrity structures or use images/videos to help them understand the principles involved.
3. Explain to the students that they will be constructing a tensegrity floating table using PVC pipes and chains.
4. Distribute the materials to each student or group of students.
5. Instruct the students to measure and cut the PVC pipes into desired lengths using a hacksaw or PVC cutter.
6. Use sandpaper to smooth the edges of the cut PVC pipes.
7. Assemble the PVC pipes and connectors to create the base structure of the floating table using tensegrity principles. Encourage students to experiment with different configurations and designs.
8. Once the base structure is complete, attach the chains to the PVC pipes, ensuring they are evenly spaced and securely connected.
9. Check the levelness of the table by placing a level on top of the PVC pipes and adjusting the chains as needed.
10. Optional: Use a drill and screws to secure the PVC pipes and connectors for added stability.
11. Once the base structure is secure and level, add a decorative tabletop material (wood, glass, etc.) to complete the floating table.
12. Test the stability and functionality of the tensegrity floating table by placing objects of varying weights on top.
13. Discuss the physics principles behind the tensegrity structure and how it allows the table to appear to float despite the forces acting upon it.

Assessment:
- Observe students' engagement and participation during the construction of the tensegrity floating table.
- Evaluate students' understanding of tensegrity principles and the engineering and design process through class discussions and their ability to explain the construction steps.

Common Core Labels Correlations:
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.9-12.3
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-12.2

Tensegrity Structures build using tension of ropes or chain something flexible. You can build furnitures using this technology like floating chair or floating table. Some call them tensegrity table or tensegrity chair. We made it simple only using PVC, chains and some hooks, so you can build yourself. If you like our video please give us a thumbs up and don't forget to subscribe. Also if you have new ideas, questions or complaints don't hesitate to comment below, i'll reply you as soon as possible. Hope you will enjoy our videos! Subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/channe....l/UC6_4orowrtKA5yKnS music I use in my videos:- Girasol - Quincas Moreira- Little Samba - Quincas MoreiraAll rights reserved by Creative SL 2022