Weston Middle School

Massachusetts Grade 8

Technology/Engineering MCAS Review

Weston, Massachusetts
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Answer and Discussion

MTM 1-2(Crate): The best answer is (c), measuring tape, handsaw, nails, and hammer.

Discussion:

  • A hand saw could be essential for cutting wood stock to the proper length.
  • A measuring tape would be very helpful both in the design phase for measuring the size of crate required, and in the construction phase for measuring and marking wood before cutting. Note: a marked stick, or story pole, could also be used for this purpose.
  • Nails would be a good choice for fastening the cut pieces of wood together. Staples might be used, but are typically too short. Screws could also be used, but would be too time-consuming to install to be cost-effective. Adhesives might also work, but again, would be too time consuming to be appropriate for a low-cost item such as a packing crate.
  • A hammer would be needed to install the nails. In a mass-production facility, a nail gun might also be used for this purpose.
 
 
Revised August 2006 by Jonathan Dietz, dietzj@mail.weston.org