Spinoffs
Submarine Technology
Level: Secondary
Subject: History/Science
Objective: Students will understand the influence that submarine technology and underwater research has had upon the economic, social and political activities of mankind.
Background: Underwater research and continued advancements in technology specific to the development of submarines has resulted in the creation of a number of commercial products that have had a pronounced impact in the American lifestyle.
Materials:
Internet
Russian Submarine Museum Curriculum Guide Bibliography
List of Research and Technology “Spinoffs”
Task: Students will write a report and provide an oral presentation on products and services that are “spinoffs” of submarine development and underwater technology and research.
Activity: Teacher will show samples of products and services which are “spinoffs” from submarine and underwater technology (i.e., microwave ovens, Satellite Positioning System, computers).
Ask students, “Why are these called ‘spinoffs’?”
Solicit students for additional examples of “spinoff” technologies.
Ask students, “What would life be like without them.”
Provide students with a list of spinoff technologies and products. Have students select one that interests them, and have them research the development of the technology using magazines on submarines and underwater technology and the Internet.
Each report should contain the following information:
· The intended underwater use of the product or technology’
· Difficulties faced in developing the technology;
· Civilian application of the technology;
· Potential uses of the “spinoff” technology.
Students can exchange findings through oral reports and bring samples of the “spinoff” technologies using a “show and tell” format.
Circumstances of performance: This student work is to be produced under the following work conditions:
__ alone __ in a group
__ in class __ as homework
__ with teacher feedback __ timed
__ with peer feedback __ opportunity for revision
Standards addressed:
