Teacher’s Guide

Merlin’s Dilemma: Bringing new technology to old systems

11th Grade – Industrial Arts

DCI - PS3.B - Energy - Conservation of Energy and Energy Transfer Energy cannot be created or
destroyed, but it can be transported from one place to another and transferred between sy stems. (HS-
PS3-1), (HS-PS3-4)

AS.SL.4 - Speaking and Listening Present information, findings, and supporting evidence such that
listeners can follow the line of reasoning and the organization, development, and style are appropriate
to task, purpose, and audience.

Essential Questions:
o How is energy being converted in your system?
o What are some types of energy in your system?
o Why are gears important in today’s society?

Scenario:
Merlin, a medieval sorcerer, has come from the past and found you to help turn the tides of war
for King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. Merlin needs help updating his catapult system,
because his current catapult system is requiring too many soldiers to run the catapult. Merlin wants you
to mock-up a miniature catapult with technology from the current era, specifically using motors to run
the catapult. If Merlin likes your idea, he will create the system on a larger scale and bring it back to King
Arthur.

Tools:
Wire Cutters C02 Laser Cutter
Soldering Gun 3D Printer
Screw Drivers Drill Press
Measuring Tape/Ruler

Created by: Byron Dejarlo

Teacher’s Guide

Pliers

Materials:
2 – Small Motors Paper
2 – AA Battery Pencils
1 - Handheld Electronic control Markers
Random Gear/Pulley Assortment
Rubber Band
String

Resources:
Gear Ratios Explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_i3PJIYtuY

Results/Deliverables:
 Design Journal
 Motorized Catapult
 Presentation on Design

Limitations/Parameters/Constraints:
 Only use available materials and tools
 System can be used on other catapults with the least amount of fabrication

Evaluation:
 Rubric
 Least amount of fabrication needed to deploy to other catapults
 If the system works or not

Created by: Byron Dejarlo