To Design Instruction, Option F:
Control Mechanisms (Grades 9-12)

Science for All Americans and
Benchmarks for Science Literacy or appropriate excerpts

Blank transparencies
Chart paper
Markers

TRANSPARENCIES:
Central Benchmark: Control Mechanisms (9-12)
Exploring Project 2061 Tools-11A
Strand Map: Feedback and Control in Technological Systems
Principles for Lessons
Principles of Effective Learning and Teaching
Inquiry and Scientific Values
Steps in Designing Instruction

HANDOUTS:
Strand Map: Feedback and Control in Technological Systems
Lesson Plan: Control Mechanisms (9-12)
Benchmarks for Lesson Plan: Control Mechanisms (9-12)
Steps in Designing Instruction
CELLS Through the Lens of Benchmarks: Reflections While Using a New Tool
 

For the class:

Mop(s)
Thermostat (optional)

TRANSPARENCIES:
Apparatus for Controlling Water Level
How a Thermostat Works
Feedback Control System Diagram

For each group (only two groups at a time will do a test):

1000 mL graduated cylinder
2.5 m rubber tube
1 m rubber tube
2 pieces of glass or plastic tubing about 5 cm long
Sponges and paper towels for clean-up
Pinch clamp
Faucet and sink
Bucket
Two chairs or stools
Box or books to put on a chair to raise the height of the bucket if necessary

Labels showing group members’ roles:
   Input Flow Controller
   Error Detector
   Output Flow Regulator
   Feedback Signaler
   Set Point Adjuster
   Recorder

For each student:

Two sheets of graph paper

HANDOUTS:
Modeling a Mechanism for Controlling Water Level
Apparatus for Controlling Water Level
How a Thermostat Works
Feedback Control System Diagram