Basic thermodynamics to save lives

TL;DR

This paper presents an educational activity where seventh-grade students built insulation boxes to deepen their understanding of thermodynamics concepts like heat and insulation, demonstrating effective learning through hands-on investigation.

Contribution

It introduces a practical, inquiry-based activity to improve conceptual understanding of thermodynamics in middle school students, linking theory with real-world applications.

Findings

Students successfully applied thermodynamics concepts.

The activity was engaging and appropriately challenging.

Students demonstrated improved understanding of heat transfer.

Abstract

Students have several misconceptions about thermodynamics. However, an understanding of basic concepts in this branch of physics remains fundamental to explain thermal phenomena. The purpose of this activity was to extend students' conceptual understanding of heat, temperature, energy, and thermal insulators and conductors. Two groups of students in grade seven created insulation boxes to keep sheep organs in a hypothermic state for the longest time possible. The activity incorporated connections to real life, autonomy, and scientific investigations to motivate the students. The data indicated that the activity was sufficiently challenging for the students and that they were able to apply their understanding of both the corresponding concepts and scientific and engineering practices.