I can provide you with some ideas on how to teach students about the connection between Tesla cars and Nikola Tesla:
1. Introduce Nikola Tesla: Begin the lesson by introducing Nikola Tesla as a famous inventor and scientist who lived in the late 19th and early 20th century. Explain his contributions to science and technology, particularly his work on electricity and power transmission.
2. Discuss Tesla’s Legacy: Explain how Nikola Tesla’s legacy has endured despite his relatively unknown status during his lifetime. Highlight his impact on modern inventions, including wireless communication, alternating current (AC) electricity, and the Tesla coil.
3. Introduce Tesla Cars: Briefly discuss the history of Tesla cars, including how they came to be and who founded the company. Mention that the company’s founder, Elon Musk, has spoken about his admiration for Nikola Tesla’s work.
4. Address the Name Connection: Explain to the students that Tesla cars are indeed named after Nikola Tesla. Share the story of how Elon Musk and his team chose the name after discovering that the patents for the Tesla coil were originally held by another company with the word ‘Tesla’ in its name.
5. Explore the Connection Further: Allow the students to use research, videos, and other resources to learn more about the connection between Tesla cars and Nikola Tesla. Encourage them to share their findings with the class through presentations or discussions.
6. Discuss the Importance of Naming: Use this discussion to delve into the many ways that naming conventions can impact our perception of things and people. Engage the students in brainstorming activities that challenge them to identify innovative and thoughtful ways to name new products or companies.
7. Encourage Creativity: Challenge students to come up with their own inventions or companies and name them after a famous scientist or inventor that they admire. This can be an opportunity to merge creative thinking, STEM education, and history lessons.
