Plumbing Unit Study
I can hear the eyes popping even now … a unit study on plumbing?! Yes!! This is a great life skill to have as well as an introduction to engineering and other technical skills such as architecture.
1. Make a drawing and explain the way the hot- and cold- water supply system in your home or that of a neighbor works. Tell how you would make it safe from freezing.
2. Make a drawing and explain the drainage system of the plumbing in a house. Show and explain the use of drains and vents.
3. Show how to use five important plumber's tools.
4. Identify and describe the use of each of the following: washer, cap nut, force cup, half-and-half solder, flux, elbow, tee, nipple, coupling, plug, union, trap, drainpipe, water meter.
5. Tell what kinds of pipe are most often used in a plumbing system. Tell why.
6. Cut, thread, and connect two pieces of galvanized pipe.
7. Using a gas torch under supervision, solder three copper tube connections. Include one tee, two straight pieces, and one coupling.
8. Replace a washer in a faucet.
9. Clean out a sink or lavatory trap.
10. Make a list of five important local health regulations related to plumbing.
11. Change the guts of a toilet tank.
12. On a fieldtrip to a home repair and supply store, investigate the different kinds of toilets and shower fixtures available. Which ones are more water conservation conscious?
13. After examining the plumbing system in your home, is there ways in which you can conserve water (i.e., water-saving shower heads, low volume toilets, etc.)? Implement at least one of these methods.
14. On the fieldtrip mentioned in activity twelve, compare the different faucet fixtures available. Of all of the models available, which one do you think is the best blend of beauty, utility, and water conservation? Explain your answer.
15. Investigate different plumbing and fixtures for the physically challenged individual. How do these differ from standard plumbing and fixtures?
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Are you sleepy, tired, or worn out most of the time?
