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Trendy Treads—Your Life Rides on Them
 
Transportation Systems Career Pathway: Ground Transportation Pathway 

  Inquiry Based Unit
Essential Question
What happens when you change wheel and tire sizes on a vehicle?
Critical Questions
 
Unit Description

In this unit, students explore the effects that changing tire and/or wheel sizes has on a vehicle. In groups of three or four, students will research a variety of topics related to tires and wheels. These topics should include, but are not limited to, the following: low-profile tires, standard tire sizing, run flat technology, future tire technology, and laws pertaining to the tire and wheel industry.

In conjunction with the challenge presented by the entry event, students will apply their findings by building a display that focuses on performance, safety, and options. The display will be utilized at a car show. Students will also create collateral handouts and will develop talking points and a short oral presentation for display visitors.

Throughout the course of this unit, the students will be learning suspension system technology, tire technology, problem-solving skills, teamwork skills, and communication skills. They will gain experience meeting timeframes and deadlines, as well as designing and building the physical project. They will be assessed on their ability to perform technical tasks learned along the way in addition to their work toward completing the scenario challenge.

Entry Event

Ohio CFTCS

Competency 3.4Deliver formal and informal presentations that demonstrate organization and delivery skill.
Competency 4.3Combine critical thinking and team-building skills to solve problems.
Competency 6.5Comply with applicable governmental regulations and codes.
Competency 16.7Perform wheel and tire diagnosis and repair.

See all Competencies for this Unit
Estimated time:
 About 30 classroom hours, with additional out-of-class time.

Student knowledge/
skill level:
  Beginner
  Novice
  Experienced
  Expert

 Prerequisites 


 Pre-Assessment 


 Materials Needed 


 Facilities 


 Business and Industry Resources 


 Other Local Assets 


 Print/Electronic Resources 


 Teacher Tips 




 Assessments
    Formative 
     Summative