Production Systems. Laboratory Activities.

This production systems guide provides teachers with learning activities for secondary students. Introductory materials include an instructional planning outline and worksheet, an outline of essential elements, domains and objectives, a course description, and a content outline. The guide contains 30 modules on the following topics: production materials; production processes; production organization; the enterprise system; material testing; structure classification; company management--construction and manufacturing; product development; simulation of automation; space production systems; human-powered vehicle; the tower of pasta; materials assembly; using robots in industry; consumer goods; name that material; types and grades of production materials; calculating quantities and costs of production materials; basic robotics; introduction to problem solving; advanced problem solving--teamwork; rafter lengths for roof construction; concrete design and construction; a structural framing model; basic blueprint reading--architectural plans; designing and building an aluminum can crusher; building a home recycling center; exploring space-based construction; foundation structures; and structures and forces of nature. Each module includes an instructor's resource sheet and the student laboratory activity. Each instructor's resource sheet may include the following elements: module number; activity topic; estimated time; essential elements; objectives; activity summary; teaching tips; instructional strategy; equipment/supplies; evaluation key; and support materials. Each student activity may include the following elements: module number; activity topic; activity overview; objectives; vocabulary/concepts reinforced; equipment/supplies; introduction; procedure; evaluation; and support materials. (NLA)