Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Activities
Project Kickoff and Team Formation - Introduce the project theme 'Games that Move Us'. Discuss the challenge of reimagining play for middle schoolers using force and motion. Form teams and begin brainstorming initial ideas. (45 min)
Exploration of Play - Participate in a series of dynamic, movement-based games designed by local play experts. Reflect on personal experiences of play to identify what makes movement exciting and engaging. (45 min)
Introduction to Force and Motion - Conduct a hands-on workshop using the Playground Physics app to explore basic principles of force, motion, and energy. Record observations and discuss how these principles can be applied to game design. (45 min)
Research and Interview Preparation - Develop questions and strategies for interviewing peers and community members about barriers to active play. Practice interviewing skills in pairs. (45 min)
Conduct Interviews and Gather Insights - Execute interviews with peers and community members to uncover real-world barriers to active play. Begin synthesizing findings to inform the design process. (45 min)
Deliverables
1. A list of identified barriers to active play specific to Bronx middle schoolers.
2. A research summary on the benefits of play and related physics concepts.
3. Initial data from Playground Physics experiments demonstrating understanding of force and motion.
4. Brainstormed ideas for movement-based game prototypes addressing identified challenges.
Preparation 1. Coordinate with Movement Creative to schedule the interactive workshop.
2. Gather and prepare materials needed for the movement-based games (e.g., balls, ropes, cones).
3. Compile a list of research resources, including articles and videos on the benefits of play and the science of motion.
4. Ensure all students have access to the Playground Physics app on their devices.
5. Prepare a worksheet or digital tool for students to record their brainstormed ideas and research findings.
Week 2
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Activities
Synthesis of Interview Findings - Analyze and discuss the insights gathered from interviews in small groups. Create a summary of key barriers to active play identified. (20 min)
Defining Design Criteria - Collaboratively establish design criteria based on interview findings, focusing on addressing Bronx-specific barriers. Document criteria for project reference. (25 min)
Force and Motion Experimentation - Conduct experiments using the Playground Physics app to investigate how varying forces affect motion. Record data and make connections to game design. (30 min)
Reflective Discussion - Share experiment findings in pairs and discuss potential applications in game design. Identify how force and motion can enhance play. (15 min)
Introduction to Prototyping - Engage in a hands-on workshop to learn basic prototyping techniques using available materials. Discuss how prototypes can bring ideas to life. (20 min)
Initial Prototype Development - Begin creating simple prototypes of game ideas that incorporate force and motion. Work in teams to construct and test initial concepts. (25 min)
Feedback and Iteration - Conduct a peer review session to provide and receive feedback on prototypes. Use insights to iterate on designs, focusing on improving functionality and engagement. (25 min)
Refinement Session - Implement feedback to refine prototypes. Emphasize enhancing the movement aspect and overcoming identified barriers. (20 min)
Showcase Preparations - Plan and organize a mini-showcase to present prototypes to the class. Prepare to explain the scientific principles behind each design. (20 min)
Class Exhibition - Present prototypes in a class exhibition. Engage with peers to discuss the design process and receive additional feedback for further development. (25 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed interviews with notes on key insights about barriers to play.
2. Research notes summarizing findings on force and motion from the Playground Physics app.
3. Data and observations from hands-on experiments on motion, force, and energy transfer.
4. Initial group brainstormed ideas for a movement-based game.
5. Draft sketches of game concepts incorporating physics principles.
Preparation 1. Gather interview questions and materials for students to conduct interviews with their peers.
2. Ensure access to the Playground Physics app on student devices.
3. Prepare materials for hands-on experiments, such as balls, ramps, and measuring tools.
4. Create group discussion guides and brainstorming templates to facilitate collaborative ideation.
5. Provide sketch paper and drawing tools for initial game concept designs.
Week 3
Day 11
Day 12
Day 13
Day 14
Day 15
Activities
Brainstorming Design Concepts - Teams will brainstorm and sketch initial concepts for their movement-based games, focusing on integrating force and motion principles. (25 min)
Feedback Session - Share design concepts with another team and provide constructive feedback based on scientific principles and playability. (20 min)
Developing Prototypes - Begin creating basic prototypes of the game concepts using materials like paper, cardboard, and string to visualize movement mechanics. (30 min)
Prototype Testing - Conduct simple tests to observe how force and motion affect the game mechanics, recording observations for further iteration. (15 min)
Analyzing Test Data - Analyze data collected from prototype tests to identify strengths and weaknesses in the design, focusing on energy transfer and force application. (25 min)
Iterating on Design - Make necessary modifications to prototypes based on data analysis and peer feedback, aiming to enhance the game's physical engagement. (20 min)
Introducing Graphic Data Displays - Learn to construct graphical displays of data to effectively communicate the relationship between kinetic energy, mass, and speed in the game. (20 min)
Graph Development - Create graphs based on prototype test data to visualize how changes in design affect play dynamics. (25 min)
Reflection and Planning - Reflect on the week's progress and refine the project plan to address any challenges faced during prototype development. (20 min)
Team Collaboration Session - Collaborate within teams to set actionable goals for the next phase, ensuring alignment with project objectives and deadlines. (25 min)
Deliverables
1. A documented experiment report on Newton's Third Law, including data and observations from the balloon rocket activity.
2. An initial concept sketch and basic model of a movement-based game that incorporates principles of force and motion.
3. A set of data and analysis from the Playground Physics app simulations, demonstrating an understanding of how force, mass, and distance affect gameplay.
4. Feedback received from the peer review session, highlighting areas for improvement and potential design iterations.
5. A reflection journal entry summarizing the learning experiences and challenges encountered during the week, with a focus on physics applications and addressing Bronx-specific barriers.
Preparation 1. Gather materials such as balloons, straws, strings, cardboard, rubber bands, and ping pong balls for experiments and prototyping.
2. Ensure students have access to the Playground Physics app on tablets or computers.
3. Prepare a rubric for peer review sessions that focuses on the application of force and motion principles, as well as the potential for social connection.
4. Set up a collaborative online platform where students can share their sketches and receive feedback from peers.
5. Organize a space for the reflection circle, ensuring it fosters open communication and socio-emotional growth.
Week 4
Day 16
Day 17
Day 18
Day 19
Day 20
Activities
Advanced Prototype Development - Enhance existing prototypes by incorporating feedback and data analysis from previous weeks, focusing on optimizing force and motion mechanics. (25 min)
Peer Review and Feedback Session - Share updated prototypes with another team and provide constructive feedback on design improvements and functionality. (20 min)
Physics of Play Workshop - Participate in a hands-on session exploring advanced physics concepts related to energy transfer and potential energy in games. Use these concepts to refine game mechanics. (30 min)
Reflection and Adjustment - Reflect on new physics insights and make necessary adjustments to prototypes to enhance playability and engagement. (15 min)
Community Partner Consultation - Engage in a virtual consultation with Movement Creative to discuss prototype progress and receive expert feedback on addressing Bronx-specific barriers. (20 min)
Incorporating Feedback - Apply insights from the consultation to make strategic changes to prototype designs, emphasizing feasibility and local relevance. (25 min)
Graphical Data Presentation - Develop and refine graphical displays of experimental data to effectively communicate the relationship between forces, motion, and play dynamics. (20 min)
Final Prototype Testing - Conduct comprehensive testing of refined prototypes, observing and recording data to ensure optimal performance and engagement. (25 min)
Data Analysis and Interpretation - Analyze final test data to identify patterns and validate the effectiveness of design changes in enhancing play and connectivity. (20 min)
Design Documentation - Compile a detailed portfolio documenting the design journey, including sketches, data analysis, and reflections to prepare for the upcoming exhibition. (25 min)
Deliverables
1. Complete team brainstorm and initial sketches of game concepts addressing Bronx-specific barriers.
2. Documentation of potential energy experiment results and observations.
3. Refined game design sketches incorporating feedback from peer review sessions.
4. A peer-reviewed feedback form with actionable insights for each team's design.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for the Monday experiment: marbles, ramps, rulers, and recording sheets.
2. Prepare a short presentation on Newton's Third Law with visuals for clarity.
3. Collect rubber bands, small weights, and measurement tools for the Wednesday experiment.
4. Create a feedback rubric for the Friday peer review session focusing on scientific accuracy, creativity, and feasibility.
5. Arrange classroom seating for optimal group work and peer review activities.
Week 5
Day 21
Day 22
Day 23
Day 24
Day 25
Activities
Prototype Refinement Workshop - Focus on refining game prototypes based on previous feedback and data analysis, ensuring improved functionality and engagement. (25 min)
Peer Feedback Exchange - Share refined prototypes with peers to receive additional feedback and suggestions for further improvement. (20 min)
Physics in Action - Conduct experiments to demonstrate how force and energy transfer impact gameplay, using insights to make final adjustments to prototypes. (30 min)
Reflection and Planning - Reflect on experiment results and plan next steps for enhancing prototypes, aligning with project objectives. (15 min)
Community Input Session - Engage with community partners for feedback on prototype enhancements, focusing on Bronx-specific barriers. (20 min)
Incorporate Community Feedback - Implement community insights to ensure prototypes are practical and locally relevant. (25 min)
Playtest Event - Organize a playtest session with classmates and community members to observe gameplay and gather real-time feedback. (25 min)
Data Collection and Analysis - Collect data from playtests to analyze the effectiveness of design changes in promoting movement and engagement. (20 min)
Iterative Design Session - Use playtest data to make final adjustments to game prototypes, emphasizing optimal play dynamics and social connectivity. (25 min)
Design Portfolio Compilation - Compile a comprehensive design portfolio showcasing the evolution of prototypes, including sketches, data analysis, and reflections. (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Initial game design sketches and concepts developed in pairs.
2. Simple physical prototypes demonstrating the application of force and motion principles.
3. Peer feedback forms providing insights on design effectiveness and scientific accuracy.
4. Updated project portfolios with documented design iterations and reflections on learning.
5. A completed model describing potential energy changes within the game system.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for prototyping: cardboard, rubber bands, marbles, scissors, tape, rulers, and markers.
2. Prepare worksheets or digital resources on Newton's Third Law and potential energy for review and discussion.
3. Set up a peer review rubric focusing on physics principles, creativity, and feasibility of design.
4. Organize digital or physical portfolios for students to document their design process and reflections.
5. Coordinate with local movement experts for an upcoming guest speaker session in the following weeks.
Week 6
Day 26
Day 27
Day 28
Day 29
Day 30
Activities
Game Mechanics Enhancement - Fine-tune game mechanics by focusing on integrating complex physics concepts such as Newton's Third Law into gameplay. Test these elements to ensure they enhance playability. (25 min)
Peer Review Session - Collaborate with peers to exchange feedback on the enhanced game mechanics. Discuss how these changes impact fun, engagement, and movement. (20 min)
Advanced Physics Application - Conduct experiments to explore the relationship between kinetic energy and game dynamics. Use findings to make final adjustments to game mechanics. (30 min)
Reflection and Plan Adjustment - Reflect on experimental outcomes and develop a plan for integrating these insights into the final prototype adjustments. (15 min)
Final Prototype Development - Implement the plan to make comprehensive refinements to prototypes, focusing on maximizing movement and addressing Bronx-specific barriers. (25 min)
Community Feedback Integration - Incorporate feedback from previous community sessions into the final prototype, ensuring the design is practical and inclusive. (20 min)
Prototype Showcase Preparation - Prepare for an internal showcase by practicing presentations that explain the physics principles behind the game design. (20 min)
Internal Prototype Showcase - Present the refined game prototypes to classmates, highlighting key design features and receiving constructive feedback. (25 min)
Feedback Analysis and Iteration - Analyze feedback from the internal showcase and make necessary iterations to enhance the game's performance and appeal. (20 min)
Design Portfolio Finalization - Compile and finalize the design portfolio, including all sketches, data, and reflections, to prepare for the upcoming public exhibition. (25 min)
Deliverables
1. Updated prototypes reflecting feedback and iterative improvements.
2. Data and analysis from the new round of playtesting, focusing on force, motion, and energy transfer.
3. Completed reflection writings where students articulate their learning progress and design challenges faced.
4. Peer feedback forms filled out with evaluations of each other's prototypes.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for prototype construction, including cardboard, rubber bands, small weights, and other accessible supplies.
2. Prepare a set of data collection sheets to help students systematically record observations during playtesting sessions.
3. Organize access to the Playground Physics app to facilitate hands-on experiments.
4. Create a feedback rubric for the peer critique session, focusing on scientific accuracy, user experience, and potential for social connection.
5. Prepare a presentation or demonstration on Newton's Third Law and potential energy, including interactive elements to engage students.
Week 7
Day 31
Day 32
Day 33
Day 34
Day 35
Activities
Prototype Refinement - Use feedback from previous internal showcase to refine the game prototype, focusing on enhancing game dynamics and addressing any issues that were identified. (25 min)
Physics Data Reassessment - Re-evaluate the graphical displays of data to ensure that the relationship between force, motion, and energy is clearly communicated. Make necessary adjustments to the data presentation. (20 min)
Community Engagement Planning - Develop strategies for engaging community members in the upcoming exhibition, ensuring that the presentation is interactive and highlights the project's impact. (20 min)
Exhibition Presentation Development - Begin crafting persuasive presentations for the exhibition, focusing on explaining the scientific principles behind the game and its societal benefits. (25 min)
Final Prototype Testing - Conduct a rigorous playtest session to observe the effectiveness of the final prototype in real-world scenarios, collecting data on engagement and movement. (25 min)
Data Analysis Session - Analyze the playtest data to assess the success of prototype modifications in promoting physical activity and social interaction. Document findings for the exhibition. (20 min)
Exhibition Rehearsal - Practice delivering the exhibition presentation, focusing on clarity, engagement, and the effective communication of physics concepts. Incorporate peer feedback to improve delivery. (20 min)
Interactive Element Development - Develop interactive elements for the exhibition that allow attendees to experience the game firsthand, integrating feedback mechanisms to gather visitor insights. (25 min)
Final Exhibition Preparation - Finalize all exhibition materials, ensuring that all data, prototypes, and presentations are ready for the showcase. Set up the exhibition space to optimize visitor flow and interaction. (25 min)
Team Reflection and Goal Setting - Reflect on the journey so far, discussing personal growth and team achievements. Set goals for the exhibition day to maximize impact and engagement. (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Revised game prototypes based on testing and feedback.
2. Data sets and analysis from prototype testing reflecting how force and motion are utilized.
3. Peer review feedback summaries highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.
4. Initial draft of persuasive pitches that include scientific evidence to support their design's impact and feasibility.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for prototype testing, including measuring tools, recording devices for data collection, and any specific materials students need for their game designs.
2. Prepare feedback forms for peer review sessions that highlight key criteria such as force, motion, and engagement.
3. Set up a space for testing that allows for safe and effective play of the prototypes.
4. Arrange for additional guidance or mini-lessons on Newton’s Third Law and its application to ensure students have the necessary knowledge for their experiments.
5. Provide resources for drafting pitches, such as examples of persuasive writing and templates for organizing their arguments effectively.
Week 8
Day 36
Day 37
Day 38
Day 39
Day 40
Activities
Final Prototype Review - Conduct a comprehensive review of the final game prototypes, focusing on ensuring all design criteria are met and the game effectively incorporates force and motion principles. (25 min)
Preparation for Final Pitch - Begin crafting persuasive pitches that clearly communicate the game's benefits, scientific principles, and how it addresses Bronx-specific barriers. (20 min)
Pitch Development Workshop - Work on refining pitch content and delivery, practicing clear and engaging communication of the game's design and impact. (30 min)
Peer Pitch Practice - Present pitches to peers for feedback on clarity, persuasiveness, and scientific accuracy, and use this feedback to make improvements. (15 min)
Final Adjustments and Testing - Make last-minute adjustments to the game design based on peer feedback and final testing, ensuring optimal performance and engagement. (25 min)
Pitch Presentation Rehearsal - Conduct a dress rehearsal of the pitch presentations, focusing on timing, clarity, and engaging storytelling. (20 min)
Community Showcase Preparation - Finalize preparations for the community showcase, ensuring all prototypes, pitches, and supporting materials are ready for presentation. (25 min)
Mock Showcase - Simulate the upcoming community showcase to practice presenting to an audience, receiving feedback on presentation skills and addressing audience questions. (20 min)
Reflection and Feedback Session - Reflect on the project journey, discussing challenges overcome, skills developed, and key learnings about force, motion, and game design. (20 min)
Final Showcase - Present the movement-based games and pitches to community partners, showcasing the culmination of the project and receiving professional feedback. (25 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed and refined prototype of the movement-based game or toy, incorporating feedback from previous playtests.
2. A graphical display of data collected from the Playground Physics app demonstrating force, motion, and energy principles in the game.
3. A persuasive pitch presentation (poster, slides, or video) that highlights the game's design process, physics principles, and its potential impact on promoting physical activity and social connection.
4. Documentation of the iterative design process, including sketches, models, and data analysis showing improvements made to the prototype.
5. Feedback summary from community playtesting sessions, highlighting areas of success and opportunities for further refinement.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for prototype building such as cardboard, foam, rubber bands, small motors, and other recyclable materials.
2. Prepare digital devices with the Playground Physics app for data collection and analysis.
3. Arrange access to an indoor space for testing prototypes that simulates the constraints of Bronx-specific environments.
4. Compile feedback forms for community stakeholders and peer review sessions.
5. Set up a schedule for playtesting sessions with community partners and peers.
Week 9
Day 41
Day 42
Day 43
Day 44
Day 45
Activities
Final Exhibition Rehearsal - Conduct a full dress rehearsal of the exhibition presentation, focusing on the clarity of communication and the integration of physics concepts. (20 min)
Interactive Feedback Session - Invite peers to participate in a mock exhibition and provide feedback on the interactive elements and presentation delivery. Use this feedback to make final adjustments. (25 min)
Exhibition Setup - Organize the exhibition space, ensuring that all prototypes, data displays, and interactive elements are strategically placed for optimal visitor engagement. (20 min)
Team Roles and Responsibilities - Assign specific roles to team members for the exhibition day, ensuring smooth operation and effective visitor interaction. (25 min)
Exhibition Day Event - Host the exhibition for community partners, peers, and stakeholders. Present prototypes, engage visitors in interactive elements, and gather feedback on the project. (45 min)
Post-Exhibition Reflection - Reflect as a team on the exhibition experience, discussing strengths and areas for improvement. Focus on the impact of the project and personal growth. (20 min)
Feedback Analysis - Review and analyze feedback collected during the exhibition to identify key takeaways and potential areas for future development. (25 min)
Project Celebration and Reflection - Celebrate the completion of the project with a class-wide event. Share personal achievements and growth experiences with peers. (20 min)
Final Portfolio Submission - Submit a comprehensive portfolio that includes all design documentation, data analysis, and reflections. Ensure all elements demonstrate the learning journey and project outcomes. (25 min)
Deliverables
1. Finalized prototype of a movement-based game or play system addressing Bronx-specific barriers.
2. Persuasive pitch presentation that includes scientific evidence and real-world benefits.
3. Reflection journal entry detailing personal growth, learning experiences, and project challenges.
4. Documented feedback from the mock exhibition and final community event.
5. Presentation of prototypes and pitches at the community exhibition, demonstrating student learning and project outcomes.
Preparation 1. Ensure all materials for prototype adjustments are available (e.g., tools, components).
2. Prepare technology needed for presentations (e.g., projectors, laptops).
3. Coordinate with community partners for the exhibition event, including venue setup.
4. Create reflection prompts and provide journals or digital platforms for student reflections.
5. Organize a feedback rubric for the mock exhibition to guide peer and teacher feedback.