Thinking in Systems - Level 2 - Components and Interactions

Mr. Anderson introduces Thinking in Systems level 2, focusing on components and interactions. He explains the importance of defining systems and their boundaries, using examples like a geared searchlight and a clothespin. The video emphasizes understanding both components and interactions within systems, encouraging viewers to apply these concepts to other systems like a marble run or a food web.

What is a key characteristic that defines a system?

• Its color

• Its boundary

• Its weight

• Its size

In the geared searchlight system, what happens when the gray gear is turned?

• The yellow gear rotates in the same direction

• The orange gear stops moving

• The light turns off

• The yellow gear rotates in the opposite direction

What role does the board play in the geared searchlight system?

• It provides light

• It secures the gears

• It rotates the gears

• It changes the light's color

What happens if the yellow gear is removed from the searchlight system?

• The orange gear rotates faster

• The gray gear stops moving

• The light doesn't turn

• The light turns faster

In the clothespin system, what holds the wooden pieces in tension?

• A spring

• A string

• A rubber band

• A metal rod

What is the first step in analyzing a system like the clothespin?

• Painting it

• Defining all the parts

• Measuring its weight

• Testing its durability

What is the next step after defining the components of a system?

• Ignoring the interactions

• Identifying the interactions between components

• Changing the components

• Removing unnecessary parts