Cosmic Rhythm
Students write poems using rhyme and meter as they come to understand the mechanical concept of rhythm, based on the principle of oscillation, in a broader biological and cultural context, as seen in dance and sports, poetry and other literary forms, and communication in general. Note: The literacy activities for the Mechanics unit are based on physical themes that have broad application to our experience in the world — concepts of rhythm, balance, spin, gravity, levity, inertia, momentum, friction, stress and tension.
Metronome can set the tempoCopyright Image by Lutz Holzapfel from Pixabay
https://pixabay.com/photos/metronome-clock-sound-studio-594645/
Accessed August 4, 2020
Engineers are concerned with oscillations or resonances in the design of mechanical devices. They design automobiles to minimize vibrations from the motor and driving conditions, which can be dangerous and noisy for passengers. Aerospace engineers design to avoid wing flutter, which is a growing oscillation of an aircraft's wing surface resulting in stresses that can lead to structural failure. Engineers also design systems to control the oscillation of moving parts in factory machinery and power system oscillations that could lead to unstable power systems.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Explain why engineers are concerned with oscillations or resonances in the design of mechanical devices
- Write poems using rhyme and meter to understand the mechanical concept of rhythm, based on the principle of oscillation, in a broader biological and cultural context
- Use reading, writing, speaking, listening and viewing skills to solve problems and answer questions