Kyoto Waterways Challenge: Design Solutions
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Kyoto Waterways Challenge: Design Solutions

Grade 4Social StudiesScience5 days
In this project, fourth-grade students explore the waterways of Kyoto, Japan, investigating their cultural significance and environmental challenges. They conduct experiments to understand the impact of gravity and friction, and they design simple machines to improve the functionality and sustainability of these waterways. Students also compare Kyoto's waterways to others around the world and propose sustainable solutions to environmental challenges, fostering a sense of global citizenship and environmental responsibility.
Kyoto WaterwaysSimple MachinesEnvironmental ImpactCultural SignificanceGravityFriction
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Inquiry Framework

Question Framework

Driving Question

The overarching question that guides the entire project.How can we design innovative solutions to address water-related challenges in Kyoto's waterways, ensuring they remain sustainable, culturally relevant, and beneficial for both the environment and the community?

Essential Questions

Supporting questions that break down major concepts.
  • How do gravity and friction affect the movement of objects in Kyoto's waterways?
  • How can simple machines improve Kyoto's waterways?
  • In what ways are different places similar to and different from Kyoto, Japan?
  • How do Kyoto's waterways fit into its geographical context and connect it to other places?
  • What are the positive and negative impacts of people on Kyoto's waterways, and how do these decisions affect the future?

Standards & Learning Goals

Learning Goals

By the end of this project, students will be able to:
  • Understand the impact of waterways on communities and cultures, specifically in Kyoto, Japan.
  • Investigate the effects of gravity and friction on objects within Kyoto's waterways through hands-on experiments.
  • Apply the concept of simple machines to improve the functionality and sustainability of Kyoto's waterways.
  • Compare and contrast Kyoto with other places globally, understanding its unique geographical context.
  • Analyze the interdependence of Kyoto's waterways within broader geographical systems.
  • Evaluate the environmental impact of human actions on Kyoto's waterways and propose sustainable solutions.

Our Ever-Evolving World (Year 5)

5PP101
Primary
Gravity and friction act as forces that affects the motion of falling objects.Reason: This standard aligns directly with the exploration of forces affecting objects in Kyoto's waterways.
5PP102
Primary
Simple machines can be used to enable forces to have a greater effect.Reason: This standard relates to the design of solutions to improve Kyoto's waterways.
5EWW101
Primary
Recognise how and why places are similar to and different from other places in the same country and elsewhere in the worldReason: This standard connects to the project's focus on understanding Kyoto in a global context.
5EWW102
Primary
Explain how places fit within geographical context and are interdependentReason: This standard supports examining Kyoto's waterways within its geographical and interdependent systems.

Responsible Global Citizen (Year 5)

5RGC101
Primary
Evaluate how people can improve or damage the environment, and how decisions about places and environments affect the future quality of people's livesReason: This standard aligns directly with the project’s focus on the environmental impact of solutions and decisions related to Kyoto’s waterways.

Entry Events

Events that will be used to introduce the project to students

Virtual Kyoto Waterways Tour & Challenge

Embark on a virtual tour of Kyoto's waterways using interactive maps, videos, and 360° images. Students identify key challenges facing these waterways (pollution, erosion, etc.). Following the tour, they're presented with a design challenge: to develop a solution addressing one of the identified problems, considering both environmental and cultural impacts.

Comparative Waterways Analysis: Local vs. Kyoto

Students investigate a local waterway (river, stream, lake) and compare its characteristics, challenges, and management strategies with those of Kyoto's waterways (through research and virtual resources). This comparative analysis helps them understand broader principles of water management and apply relevant solutions to the Kyoto context.
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Portfolio Activities

Portfolio Activities

These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.
Activity 1

"Forces in Motion: Ramp Race Challenge"

Students will design and conduct experiments using ramps to understand how gravity and friction affect the motion of objects, specifically as they relate to the movement of watercraft or debris in Kyoto's waterways.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research how gravity and friction affect the movement of objects on ramps.
2. Design a ramp experiment to test the effects of different surfaces (e.g., smooth vs. rough) on the speed of a small object (representing a boat or debris).
3. Conduct the experiment, recording data on distance traveled and time taken for each surface.
4. Analyze the data to draw conclusions about the relationship between surface friction, gravity, and the speed of the object.
5. Relate findings to real-world scenarios in Kyoto's waterways.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA written report with data tables, graphs, and conclusions explaining the effects of gravity and friction on object movement, with specific examples from Kyoto's waterways.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAligns with standard 5PP101: Gravity and friction act as forces that affect the motion of falling objects. This activity allows students to directly observe and measure these forces in a controlled experiment, connecting it to the context of Kyoto's waterways.
Activity 2

"Simple Machines to the Rescue!"

Students will explore how simple machines can be used to improve the functionality and sustainability of Kyoto's waterways by designing a simple machine that could help solve a specific challenge (e.g., lifting debris, controlling water flow).

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research different types of simple machines (lever, pulley, wheel and axle, inclined plane, wedge, screw).
2. Identify a specific challenge in Kyoto's waterways (e.g., removing trash, preventing erosion).
3. Design a simple machine that could help address the chosen challenge.
4. Create a model or diagram of the simple machine, explaining how it works and why it is effective.
5. Present the design to the class, explaining its benefits and limitations.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA model or detailed diagram of a simple machine designed to solve a specific challenge in Kyoto's waterways, along with a written explanation of its function and benefits.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAligns with standard 5PP102: Simple machines can be used to enable forces to have a greater effect. Students apply this concept by designing a practical solution for a real-world problem in Kyoto's waterways.
Activity 3

"Kyoto vs. the World: A Comparative Study"

Students will research and compare Kyoto's waterways with waterways in another part of the world, identifying similarities and differences in terms of geography, culture, and challenges.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Choose a waterway in another part of the world to compare with Kyoto's waterways.
2. Research the chosen waterway, focusing on its geography, cultural significance, and environmental challenges.
3. Create a Venn diagram or comparison chart to highlight the similarities and differences between Kyoto's waterways and the chosen waterway.
4. Write a short essay explaining the connections between the geographical context and the cultural practices related to each waterway.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA Venn diagram or comparison chart and a short essay comparing Kyoto's waterways with those of another region, highlighting geographical and cultural similarities and differences.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAligns with standard 5EWW101: Recognise how and why places are similar to and different from other places in the same country and elsewhere in the world. This activity encourages students to think critically about the unique characteristics of Kyoto while also identifying commonalities with other regions.
Activity 4

"Waterways Web: Interdependence Analysis"

Students will investigate how Kyoto's waterways are interconnected with other geographical features and systems, both locally and globally, focusing on the flow of resources, people, and ideas.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research the geographical context of Kyoto, including its location, climate, and natural resources.
2. Identify the various ways in which Kyoto's waterways are connected to other places and systems (e.g., transportation, agriculture, tourism).
3. Create a concept map or diagram illustrating the interdependence of Kyoto's waterways with other elements of its environment and economy.
4. Write a paragraph explaining how changes in one part of the system could affect other parts.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA concept map or diagram illustrating the interdependence of Kyoto's waterways with other geographical and economic systems, along with a written explanation of these connections.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAligns with standard 5EWW102: Explain how places fit within geographical context and are interdependent. Students analyze the complex relationships between Kyoto's waterways and other systems, demonstrating their understanding of interdependence.
Activity 5

"Environmental Impact Assessment: Kyoto's Waterways"

Students will evaluate the positive and negative impacts of human actions on Kyoto's waterways, proposing sustainable solutions to mitigate negative effects and enhance positive ones.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research the history of human interaction with Kyoto's waterways, identifying both positive and negative impacts (e.g., pollution, conservation efforts).
2. Create a list of the main environmental challenges facing Kyoto's waterways today.
3. Brainstorm and research potential solutions to these challenges, considering both environmental and cultural impacts.
4. Develop a detailed proposal for one sustainable solution, including a plan for implementation and evaluation.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA detailed proposal for a sustainable solution to address an environmental challenge facing Kyoto's waterways, including a plan for implementation and evaluation.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAligns with standard 5RGC101: Evaluate how people can improve or damage the environment, and how decisions about places and environments affect the future quality of people's lives. This activity allows students to critically assess human impacts and propose solutions for a more sustainable future in Kyoto.
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Rubric & Reflection

Portfolio Rubric

Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolio

Kyoto Waterways Challenge Portfolio Rubric

Category 1

Scientific Understanding

Demonstrates understanding of scientific principles (gravity, friction, simple machines) and their application to Kyoto's waterways.
Criterion 1

Application of Scientific Concepts

Effectively applies scientific concepts of gravity, friction, and simple machines to explain phenomena and solve problems related to Kyoto's waterways.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of gravity, friction, and simple machines, applying these concepts innovatively to analyze and solve complex problems related to Kyoto's waterways. Provides thorough explanations and insightful connections.

Proficient
3 Points

Demonstrates a thorough understanding of gravity, friction, and simple machines, applying these concepts appropriately to explain phenomena and solve problems related to Kyoto's waterways. Explanations are clear and accurate.

Developing
2 Points

Shows an emerging understanding of gravity, friction, and simple machines, applying these concepts inconsistently to explain phenomena and solve problems related to Kyoto's waterways. Explanations may lack clarity or detail.

Beginning
1 Points

Shows a limited understanding of gravity, friction, and simple machines, struggling to apply these concepts to explain phenomena or solve problems related to Kyoto's waterways. Explanations are incomplete or inaccurate.

Criterion 2

Experimental Design & Analysis

Designs and conducts experiments effectively, collecting and analyzing data to draw valid conclusions about the impact of forces on objects in Kyoto's waterways.

Exemplary
4 Points

Designs and conducts experiments with exceptional precision and rigor, collecting comprehensive data and performing sophisticated analysis to draw insightful and well-supported conclusions about the impact of forces on objects in Kyoto's waterways. Demonstrates a deep understanding of experimental methodology.

Proficient
3 Points

Designs and conducts experiments effectively, collecting relevant data and performing accurate analysis to draw valid conclusions about the impact of forces on objects in Kyoto's waterways. Demonstrates a good understanding of experimental methodology.

Developing
2 Points

Designs and conducts experiments with some inconsistencies, collecting incomplete data and performing basic analysis to draw tentative conclusions about the impact of forces on objects in Kyoto's waterways. Demonstrates a basic understanding of experimental methodology.

Beginning
1 Points

Struggles to design and conduct experiments effectively, collecting minimal data and performing inadequate analysis to draw unsupported conclusions about the impact of forces on objects in Kyoto's waterways. Demonstrates a limited understanding of experimental methodology.

Category 2

Cultural and Geographical Understanding

Demonstrates understanding of the cultural and geographical context of Kyoto and its waterways, including their interdependence and global connections.
Criterion 1

Contextual Knowledge

Demonstrates a thorough understanding of the geographical and cultural context of Kyoto's waterways, including their historical significance and current challenges.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates exceptional knowledge of the geographical and cultural context of Kyoto's waterways, providing rich details and insightful analysis of their historical significance and current challenges. Connects local issues to broader global contexts.

Proficient
3 Points

Demonstrates a thorough understanding of the geographical and cultural context of Kyoto's waterways, providing clear explanations of their historical significance and current challenges.

Developing
2 Points

Shows an emerging understanding of the geographical and cultural context of Kyoto's waterways, with some awareness of their historical significance and current challenges. May lack detail or accuracy.

Beginning
1 Points

Shows a limited understanding of the geographical and cultural context of Kyoto's waterways, with minimal awareness of their historical significance or current challenges. Information may be superficial or inaccurate.

Criterion 2

Interdependence Analysis

Analyzes the interdependence of Kyoto's waterways with other systems (environmental, economic, social), both locally and globally.

Exemplary
4 Points

Provides a sophisticated analysis of the complex interdependence of Kyoto's waterways with other environmental, economic, and social systems, both locally and globally. Demonstrates a nuanced understanding of feedback loops and cascading effects.

Proficient
3 Points

Analyzes the interdependence of Kyoto's waterways with other environmental, economic, and social systems, both locally and globally, providing clear examples and explanations.

Developing
2 Points

Identifies some connections between Kyoto's waterways and other environmental, economic, and social systems, but the analysis is limited or superficial.

Beginning
1 Points

Struggles to identify connections between Kyoto's waterways and other environmental, economic, and social systems. Demonstrates a limited understanding of interdependence.

Category 3

Solution Design and Sustainability

Designs innovative and sustainable solutions to address water-related challenges in Kyoto, considering both environmental and cultural impacts.
Criterion 1

Innovation and Creativity

Develops creative and original solutions that address water-related challenges in Kyoto, going beyond conventional approaches.

Exemplary
4 Points

Develops highly innovative and creative solutions that address water-related challenges in Kyoto in unique and imaginative ways. Demonstrates exceptional problem-solving skills and a willingness to take risks.

Proficient
3 Points

Develops creative solutions that address water-related challenges in Kyoto, demonstrating originality and thoughtful consideration of different approaches.

Developing
2 Points

Develops solutions that address water-related challenges in Kyoto, but the ideas may lack originality or creativity. Relies on conventional approaches.

Beginning
1 Points

Struggles to develop solutions that address water-related challenges in Kyoto. Ideas are uninspired or impractical.

Criterion 2

Sustainability and Impact Assessment

Evaluates the environmental and cultural impacts of proposed solutions, ensuring they are sustainable and culturally sensitive.

Exemplary
4 Points

Provides a comprehensive and nuanced evaluation of the environmental and cultural impacts of proposed solutions, demonstrating a deep understanding of sustainability principles and cultural sensitivity. Addresses potential unintended consequences and proposes mitigation strategies.

Proficient
3 Points

Evaluates the environmental and cultural impacts of proposed solutions, ensuring they are sustainable and culturally sensitive. Provides clear justifications for design choices.

Developing
2 Points

Identifies some environmental and cultural impacts of proposed solutions, but the evaluation is incomplete or superficial. May overlook key considerations.

Beginning
1 Points

Fails to adequately evaluate the environmental and cultural impacts of proposed solutions. Demonstrates a limited understanding of sustainability or cultural sensitivity.

Category 4

Communication and Presentation

Effectively communicates findings, ideas, and solutions through written reports, diagrams, models, and presentations.
Criterion 1

Clarity and Organization

Presents information in a clear, concise, and well-organized manner, using appropriate visuals and language.

Exemplary
4 Points

Presents information with exceptional clarity, conciseness, and organization, using sophisticated visuals and precise language to create a compelling and engaging presentation. Demonstrates mastery of communication skills.

Proficient
3 Points

Presents information in a clear, concise, and well-organized manner, using appropriate visuals and language to effectively communicate findings and ideas.

Developing
2 Points

Presents information in a somewhat disorganized manner, with some lapses in clarity and conciseness. Visuals may be inadequate or poorly chosen.

Beginning
1 Points

Presents information in a disorganized and confusing manner, with significant lapses in clarity and conciseness. Visuals are lacking or ineffective.

Criterion 2

Evidence and Justification

Supports claims and solutions with relevant evidence and clear justifications, demonstrating a strong understanding of the subject matter.

Exemplary
4 Points

Supports claims and solutions with compelling evidence and insightful justifications, demonstrating a deep and nuanced understanding of the subject matter. Critically evaluates different perspectives and acknowledges limitations.

Proficient
3 Points

Supports claims and solutions with relevant evidence and clear justifications, demonstrating a strong understanding of the subject matter.

Developing
2 Points

Provides some evidence and justifications for claims and solutions, but the support is weak or incomplete. Demonstrates a basic understanding of the subject matter.

Beginning
1 Points

Fails to adequately support claims and solutions with evidence or justifications. Demonstrates a limited understanding of the subject matter.

Reflection Prompts

End-of-project reflection questions to get students to think about their learning
Question 1

Reflecting on the 'Forces in Motion: Ramp Race Challenge,' how did your understanding of gravity and friction change as a result of the experiment, and how can you apply this understanding to solve real-world problems related to Kyoto's waterways?

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Question 2

In the 'Simple Machines to the Rescue!' project, what was the most challenging aspect of designing a simple machine to address a specific challenge in Kyoto's waterways, and what did you learn from overcoming this challenge?

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Question 3

After completing the 'Kyoto vs. the World: A Comparative Study,' how did comparing Kyoto's waterways to those in another part of the world broaden your perspective on the cultural and geographical factors that shape waterways?

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Question 4

Considering your work on the 'Waterways Web: Interdependence Analysis,' how has your understanding of the interdependence of systems evolved, and what actions can individuals take to support the health and sustainability of interconnected waterways like those in Kyoto?

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Question 5

Following the 'Environmental Impact Assessment: Kyoto's Waterways,' what is the most important lesson you learned about the impact of human actions on the environment, and how will this lesson guide your future decisions and actions?

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