Through the theme of mechanical toys, students explore the concept of control systems, and use the Internet to research related concepts. Students conduct a hands-on class activity in which they take apart a mechanical toy and analyze the input, control, and output of the device. Then, they create a multimedia presentation to explain how the control system of the toy works. Give an operational definition of a control system. Analyze the elements of a control system in terms of input, control, and output.
Students use the Internet as a tool for research.
They visit several Web sites to gain background information about toys and control systems, that they use in an analysis activity. This lesson was developed by Dave Janosz, wNetSchool Master Teacher, and was funded by the Louis Calder Foundation.