Task 7

Materials and tools for a working group:

materials and tools designed by pupils

The seventh task is also aimed at exploring the use of the lever, but this time in the form of a wheelbarrow. The research question is aimed at investigation of wheelbarrows with shorter and longer handles. Pupils task is to find out whether working effort relates with length of wheelbarrow handles.

Pupils are asked to make predictions about differences in handling the wheelbarrow when lifting the load. In order to make it easier for pupils, it is sufficient if they choose one of the proposed predictions listed in the worksheets, or, if they do not agree with either of them, they can create their own wording of the prediction. By proposing predictions we provide the pupils with a pattern in the prediction making. At the same time, pupils realize that it is natural to have several different predictionscreated. We realize the research because we want to find out what we are not sure about, with predictionsspecifying what is being investigated. Pupils assume that there is a difference in the effort exerted to lift the load in the wheelbarrow if we grab the hands away from the load. The drawing shows three positions of the handle grip. After creating the predictions, the pupils propose a procedure by which they can verify their predictions. They will discuss, implement and evaluate the proposed procedures. The conclusion is in the form of an answer to the research question: Which wheelbarrow facilitates work more, with long or short handles? In conclusion, pupils can also add other interesting findings.

After the assessment, the teacher can guide the pupils to discuss what should be the optimal length of handles for the wheelbarrow. Pupils consider the different factors (even the research suggests that the longer the handles, the easier the load is, but the long handles also have their own cons).