Lesson 2: The Grand Prix: Obstacle Course Execution

How does the "Tether Master" (co-pilot) communicate with the "Pilot" to prevent snags?

In a timed environment, when is it better to go slow and be precise versus going fast and risking a collision?

Course Logistics: The sequence and rules governing the navigation challenge.

Operational Constraints: Environmental or mechanical limits (like battery life or tether length) that affect the mission.

Recovery: The act of backing out and re-aligning after missing a hoop or snagging the tether.

ITEEA STEL-4N: Evaluate a technological solution and make recommendations for improvement.

NGSS HS-ETS1-4: Use a computer simulation or physical model to iterate on a design.

Description: This is the "Main Event." The pool is set up with a series of hoops. Some are floating at the surface, others are weighted to the bottom. Teams have 8 minutes to pass through the entire sequence. One student pilots, while the other manages the "slack" in the tether.

Purpose: To test the durability of the build and the skill of the operator under "mission-critical" pressure.

DOK Level: Level 4 (Extended Thinking). This lesson requires students to synthesize everything they’ve learned. During the run, they must make split-second decisions based on water currents, tether tension, and mechanical behavior—evaluating and adjusting their plan in real-time.

In this course, we recognize that students enter the lab with varying levels of technical experience. Our differentiation strategy employs a 'Scaffolded Autonomy' approach. We provide structured, step-by-step guidance for foundational concepts while offering open-ended, 'Design Challenge' extensions for advanced learners. By utilizing peer-mentorship models, diverse instructional media (visual, tactile, and digital), and flexible project pathways, we ensure every student can move from consumer to creator at their own pace.

The Mission Scorecard: A rubric-based grade considering:

1. Completion: Number of hoops passed.

2. Time: Total duration of the run.

3. Cleanliness: Number of times the ROV or tether touched the hoop frame (penalties for "collisions").