At iLEAD Online, learning isn’t just about books or sitting at a laptop listening to a teacher speak. It’s about solving real problems with real solutions! Take our Expert Engineers class, for example. Recommended for grades 6-8, this course recently challenged learners with a difficult task: building a machine to lift water using the engineering process. Facilitator Christine Hahn asked learners to design, build, and test their ideas until they got the best one.
Among our bright learners, Calvin W. and Tobias P. rose to the challenge.
Calvin’s Valved Water Pump
Calvin W. created a brilliant device that works like a hand pump. He used a large syringe as the main part.
- How it Works: Calvin added special one-way valves (flaps that only let water flow in one direction). When you pull the handle back, the syringe sucks water in. When you push it forward, the water gets forced out and up!
- The Big Idea: It’s super practical! His pump can attach to a regular hose or be lowered into a well or bucket to bring water up. He proved that simple household items can be turned into effective tools!
Tobias’s Experiments: The Search for the Best Lifter
Tobias P. didn’t build just one idea. Instead, he tried several versions of a device (including an Archimedes screw and a pump) and kept track of his results to find the winner! This is called iteration—building, testing, and improving.
Tobias tested different combinations of materials, like using wide garden hoses versus narrow fish tank tubes, and trying out different shafts inside to push the water, such as a closet pole or a marker.
- The Findings: Most of Tobias’s early attempts lifted the water only about halfway up.
- The Winner: Tobias found that the combination of a medium-sized fish tank tube and a thick closet pole worked best. This setup was a breakthrough! With this final design, his device was able to lift one full cup of water in just one minute!
Calvin and Tobias followed the steps of real engineers:
- They had a goal.
- They sketched and built their prototypes.
- They tested them over and over.
- They didn’t stop until their devices worked!
Awesome job, engineers!
Want to join the adventure? Learn more about iLEAD Online’s Expert Engineers course here!
About iLEAD Online:
iLEAD Online is a free public TK-12 school providing personalized online education with flexible schedules, allowing learners to pursue their passions like acting, athletics, and dance, alongside their studies. Founded in 2017, we emphasize individualized and project-based learning, leadership, and social-emotional growth. Learners benefit from technology, arts, and deeper learning, developing collaboration and critical thinking skills through our flexible virtual independent study model. Certified educators and college counselors offer personalized support, including guidance on college applications and financial aid. We also offer NCAA and UC a-g approved courses. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook and find us at www.ileadonline.org.