What is a System? I can identify a variety of systems. I can describe the components of a system.

This is a system.

This is a system.

This is a system.

This is a system.

So, what makes a system?

Our definition of a system… Two or more parts, working together, to perform a function. Matter and energy flow through systems.

Sprinkler System… A sprinkler system has many parts. Some parts are above ground…

Some parts are below ground.

Some parts control what happens. Sometimes parts do not always work right.

Some sprinkler systems have only a few parts… and other sprinkler systems are much more complex.

The function of a sprinkler system is to provide water to plants.

Remember the definition of a system… Two or more parts, working together, to perform a function. Matter and energy flow through systems.

Is this a system? WHY?

working together to move people from place to place The skateboard has: many different parts working together to move people from place to place Motion energy flows through the system grip tape deck trucks wheels bearings

Is this a system? WHY?

The iPod has: many different parts working together to play music sound energy flows through the system

Is this a system?

The toy car has: many _________ working together to ____________ _________ energy flows through the system

What systems are in this room? Work with your team to identify at least four systems that you can see. Identify the parts of each system. What is the function of each system? What kind of energy flows through each system?

Based on “Teaching Systems as a Framework for Understanding” Based on “Teaching Systems as a Framework for Understanding”. Martha Mather and Vicky Smoot, NSTA Area Conference, Dec. 2011