Why can't we text when wearing wool gloves? The narrator explains the science behind touchscreens as part of a larger physics series. From sensors to translation, the complex process of sending a simple emoji comes to life.

Concepts

binary code, communication technology

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Learn more about the evolution and sensitivity of touchscreens
• Test various materials to see which activate a touchscreen and which don't, i.e. cotton, q-tip, wool, eraser, etc.

Classroom Considerations

• Relies on prior knowledge of smartphone technology and the poop emoji

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Connects physics, engineering, math, technology, and computer technology
• Offers closed captioning in four languages for the hearing impaired
• Applies to everyday life

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.9-10.2 SL.11-12.2 RST.9-10.4 RST.11-12.4