Infusing a love for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math

Lunar Design Challenge: A Model STEM Lesson

Deborah H. McMurtrie – DeborahMc@usca.edu

Bridget K. Coleman – BridgetC@usca.edu

Gary J. Senn – SennG@usca.edu

http://rpsec.usca.edu/Presentations/SCMSA2015/

History

• When were lunar rovers first used?

• What could they do?

• Why is this important?

The Engineering Design Process

• Step 1: Present the Problem

• Step 2: Imagine the Possibilities: Brainstorm!

• Step 3: Make a Plan and Predict

• Step 4: Design and Build

• Step 5: Reflect and Revise

The Problem

The Lunar Design Company needs a vehicle that will safely carry 2 astronauts and a cargo container down a ramp. Your challenge is to design and build it. Your team will compete with other teams: Which vehicle can travel the longest distance and be the most cost effective?

The Criteria

• You must keep track of what you spend.• The vehicle can be no more than 20

centimeters wide and 25 centimeters long.• It must be lightweight.• You may test and revise your design as

needed. You must work together as a team, sharing ideas and helping each other.

Required Components:•Chassis•Wheels•Cargo•Astronauts

Optional:•Seats•Steering wheel•Camera•Other

The Engineering Team

• Project Manager: Keeps the team on schedule and on budget

• Materials Manager: Brings and distributes supplies and lists materials used

• Cost Analyst: Records and totals the amount spent

• Data Analyst: Records the data for each trial• Communications Specialist: Spokesperson for

the team; presents a one minute summary at the showcase

Imagine the Possibilities!

• Take a look at the materials available to you and brainstorm ideas with your team

• Make a plan

• Predict what will happen