Tunnelworks: Key Stage Three Science

Tunnelworks is a series of teaching and learning resources linking mathematics and science to the Thames Tideway Tunnel project, a major new sewer that will help protect the River Thames from increasing pollution. Background to the project is given in the introductory video.

Lesson one explores the relationship between force, area and pressure using the example of cranes on a Thames Tideway Tunnel construction site. Students consider how adding a load to the crane, or using stabilising pads, changes the pressure a crane exerts on the ground as the force or area changes. The student worksheets and teacher notes are to be used in conjunction with the slides in this link.

Lesson two explores the turning moment created when a force acts about a pivot, using the forces on a crane that come from the load and the counterweight. Students consider how the counterweight can balance different loads at different distances from the centre of the crane. The student worksheets and teacher notes are to be used in conjunction with the slides in this link.