ROV

Lukas and Noah have been working on their most recent science project for a few days. As part of our science learning, we use Supercharged Science, a fantastic science program. We used the program for our Science Fridays and from the very beginning Lukas had his eyes set on the ROV - remote operated vehicle. This one, an underwater ROV.

On Friday, being Science day, the boys set out to build the ROV. Lukas handled the pre -planning work developing a supply list, finding what he could here at the house and compiling a shopping list. A trip to Home Depot and Radio Shack ensured that all materials were in hand. It was quite humorous walking in to Radio Shack and being asked what I would like to purchase and defer to Lukas. He and the store manager hunted around for a solution to our need as the preferred item was not in stock. It ended with Lukas coming up with a good work around solution and also kindly refusing to purchase more gadgets than were necessary. All the while, I felt quite lost, not being able to contribute to any problem solving while really wishing we could find all the items in one store to bring our shopping and errand trip to an end since we had already tried one other place in town.

Noah and Lukas worked patiently through the many steps, measuring twice, cutting once; having to stop and going out to cut more parts needed but not listed on the original materials list, needing to wait for glue to dry, postponing some assembly until we had returned to Home Depot for a new jar of glue as the first one just was not going to open, learning to work together to solve small mishaps and glitches as they arouse, and realizing this was not a quick get it done project. All great learning for two eager young men ready to conquer the world in a jiffy.

As soon as we got home from CC, all the tiredness from a long day dissolved and Lukas energetically headed to the school room to finish off the ROV. The goal was a maiden journey before dinner.  Goal reached, although dinner was a bit delayed, which delayed bed time routine, which delayed... oh well. It was all well worth it seeing the pride and excitement in their eyes, this was theirs and they built it all by themselves - using Supercharged Science great video instructions of course. Their next dilemma.. where to take the ROV for some real testing, the bath tube is just a bit too shallow.... I am sure by the end of the week, this little pesky detail will be solved as well.