WV State Standards: Math: CM.5.2, CM.2.1, CM.2.4 Science: Technology: National Standards:  Math: Science: 1, 2, 6 Technology: Blooms Taxonomy: Knowledge, Comprehension, Application 21st Century Skills: Learning and Innovation Skills  Creativity and Innovation Skills Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills Life and Career Skills Flexibility & Adaptability

Overview:

During the 1998 Hurricane Season the State of Florida experienced several storms that damaged 7,895 homes. Building homes that could better withstand the winds from hurricanes will be a consideration in all future housing starts.

Your task is to research design strategies so you can eventually design and build the most wind resistant building using the materials provided. Your home must include at least 2,000 cubic centimeters and can be any shape. GOOD LUCK!

Objective(s):

1. Students will research using available resources such as the internet and print materials found in the school library to find out how to construct a hurricane proof house.  See below resources:

Google.com
http://redcross.tallytown.com/educate.html
http://www.atozteacherstuff.com/Themes/Hurricanes
http://www.redcross.org/services/disaster/0,1082,0_587_,00.html

2. Students will gain a greater understanding of hurricanes by working through an online resource which is set up as a puzzle the students must work through. (site listed in Procedure)

Time Required:

Two 45 minute class periods in computer lab

Pre-Requisite Skills:

Internet skills, Note Taking Skills, Problem Solving Skills

Internet, Computer

Internet, Paper for taking notes

Allow time for students to work independently on the internet to conduct research about natural disaster preparedness and to take notes to help in the next lesson where they will build a Hurricane Proof House in teams.

Also, students will complete the On-line Hurricane Module at http://www.cotf.edu/ete/modules/sevweath/sevweath.html

Work through:

Situation
Team Training Activities
 Background Information
Hurricane Watch
Extension Activities (optional)

Students can work individually or in groups depending on their individual needs.  The teacher can adjust requirements and the amount of help provided to students.

Author's Notes:

21st Century Assessment:

Students will get participation points for completion of the online activities and taking research notes

Students will be assessed by their performance building a Hurricane Proof House (see rubric listed on next lesson plan)