Solar Mechanics

About the Teacher

Eric Bennett is a current graduate student and instructor at Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas, in the Department of Health and Human Performance. He is working toward an M. Ed. in Physical Education with teaching certifications in Physical Education, Studio Art, Mathematics and Physics. Eric graduated from Linfield College with a B.A. in Studio Art and a minor in Mathematics in 2002. He went on to complete two terms of service for AmeriCorps, first tutoring special-needs elementary students in mathematics and reading in Boise, Idaho, and next teaching photography at the Court Youth Center, an arts center for high school students on long-term suspensions in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Beginning in 2005 at Sri Atmananda Memorial School in Austin, Texas, Eric spent five years teaching elementary, middle and high school mathematics, high school physical education and technology courses. Eric has also led seminars in video game design through the Austin Community College Summer Youth Program for two years.

A note from the teacher & some of the things the campers learned while in camp

Hello Parents,
We’ve had a wonderful week exploring solar power, renewable energy, teamwork and hands-on, mechanical building projects. Here is a synopsis of our activities so far:

1. Worksheet on key concepts related to solar power, including the nature of radiant energy, sustainable energy sources, electricity and light
2. 20+ Experiments exploring solar power, including the relative strength of direct sunlight, the power needed for various mechanical tasks and comparisons between battery and solar power
3. 5+ Building projects exploring various mechanical concepts in the construction of solar-powered cars, trucks, elevators, drawbridges, airplanes and cranes

Campers have completed all of the above activities in teams of three, giving each student the opportunity to work on leadership, communication, flexibility and cooperation. At times, these skills have become the focus of our camp, with work progressing only as quickly as the collective success of each team would allow. While many students have been challenged to consider the goals of the team ahead of their own, share responsibilities, communicate ideas or simply to ask for help from a teammate in a difficult situation, each has shown a willingness to learn and grow.

Thank you for sending your children to our first Solar Mechanics camp. I have enjoyed the experience and welcome your feedback.
Best regards,
Eric Bennett

Click here to download the 2013 YPW Camps Catalog