Case Study 9.1 DfES 227/2003

In this case study pupils explore ICT systems within the context of designing a new water ride in a theme park. The ride must be water-based and involve some kind of boat or raft. The design of the boat is not important; the focus is on developing a ride with one or more boats moving through a water channel safely and under control. The system could involve a feed back loop.

Pupils assess the requirements of a new ride, then plan and develop a safety control system. The work provides them with the opportunity to evaluate the use of technology and reflect on its use in other situations. Pupils develop their abilities to plan, build, test, evaluate and document their use of a control system, as well as extending their skills in using sensors and control software.

Finally, pupils consider how to create an appropriate presentation to be shown to the park manager, outlining the features of the ride and how safety components have been included.