Boats have long been a method of transport for people and cargo alike for centuries. As we have been learning about density over the past few weeks, we thought it would be a good idea to investigate how boats float on the water.
After watching a video, we realised that metal is more dense than water so it should sink in the water. However, the shape and design of large ships means that air is trapped inside the boat making it lighter and less dense than the water! We also found out that bullheads (metal supports) create water tight compartments that prevents the ship from sinking.
To test this out, we have designed some of our own boats that will be made next week. We had to consider what materials would be best to build a boat, what shape and design the boat would be, what the weight would be and how we can include bulkheads. Here’s what we had to say about the challenge:
“Evan and I took it very seriously by making a one-way valve that will filter out water from the boat” – Freddie
“It was fun designing the boat but I found it hard to think of ideas. After thinking with Ethan, I think we have found a solution.” – Cameron
“I liked working with Lucy today and it was challenging to think of different materials to build the boat with but we worked together as a team to come up with the solution.” – Elle
“Abi and I found it hard to think of ways to design the bottom of the boat as we wanted it to be round. We have decided to make it out of tinfoil and Lego.” – Sophie
We will be making our designs next week and we look forward to sharing it with you.
See you soon,
Primary5/6 at Balmullo.
