News

Exploring The Power Of Pulleys Through Science Lab

PCA eighth graders recently engaged in an exciting pulley system lab as part of their "Work and Machines" unit. This unit focuses on understanding simple machines and how they can enhance our ability to perform work. Middle School Science Teacher Kim Moser explains, “The specific objective for this lab was to calculate the absolute and ideal mechanical advantages of different pulley systems. I wanted them to discover that as the number of pulleys in a system increased, the mechanical advantage would also increase, leading to a decrease in the effort force required.”

To achieve this, students were tasked with building three distinct pulley systems. The first system consisted of a single pulley, the second had two pulleys, and the third boasted four pulleys. By using spring scales and 1 kg weights, they were able to test and calculate the effort forces and mechanical advantages of each system. Not only was this lab a fun and engaging experience for the students, but it also allowed them to make remarkable discoveries about the power and principles of simple machines. 

Launching Into Space Exploration In Lower School STEM

In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, our Lower School STEM classes engaged in a special project celebrating the groundbreaking achievements of Dr. Ellen Ochoa, the first Latina astronaut in space. Students learned about Dr. Ochoa’s significant contribution to the development and control of a robotic arm that helped astronauts to walk in space. Then, they got to work on their own project, building a robotic hand. The lesson provided a deeper understanding of the intricate mechanisms involved in space exploration and the vital role that technology plays in advancing scientific endeavors. 

Beyond the science and technology, Lower School STEM Coordinator, Ellen Peek, led meaningful discussions about the creative gifts and abilities that God has given each one of us to use for His glory. She also shared how God has marked out specific times for us to live in, and how we each have a purpose to fulfill in our lifetimes.

 Acts 17: 26 "From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands."