Students move on to investigate how current varies with changes to voltage or resistance. While looking for patterns in the data, they attempt to form an algebraic equation that represents the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance. Determine a scale for your defibrillator that is safe to experiment with and determine the associated voltage output. Design a first version of the schematic diagram of your circuit and build a rough model of the circuit. As you re working, identify questions the answers to which will help you improve your design.
Students then address questions emerging from their first try.
They augment their knowledge base building and experimenting with circuits that use capacitors differently, learning more about how capacitors are charged and discharged in a circuit. In preparation for the final Milestone, students discuss the criteria by which the Milestone will be assessed. Drawing upon their learning throughout the unit, students create a complete circuit diagram, build and test the circuit, justify the choice of each component, and demonstrate their circuit to an audience, explaining why it is an appropriate model for the defibrillator. The SCW embedded assessments are often complex, calling upon students to structure, integrate, and apply a growing body of conceptual knowledge. The assessments also require a hefty degree of self-management skills.