National Lighthouse Day — 10th Grade Tech Blend (10 minutes) Complete this quick check to connect lighthouse engineering (optics, automation, reliability) with modern navigation technology (GPS/AIS). Answer all questions; the final response should be written in complete sentences.
Which statement best describes what a Fresnel lens does in a lighthouse?
True or False: A lighthouse’s unique flash pattern can act like an “identifier” to help mariners confirm which lighthouse they are seeing.
Select TWO: Which technologies are most directly associated with modern electronic navigation (as opposed to visual lighthouse signals)?
In one or two words, name a condition that could make GPS less reliable for navigation (example: signal ____).
Match the lighthouse (or navigation) component to its primary purpose.
| Draggable item | arrow_right_alt | Corresponding Item |
|---|---|---|
AIS | arrow_right_alt | Turns light on at dusk |
Photocell/light sensor | arrow_right_alt | Keeps light running in outage |
Backup battery/generator | arrow_right_alt | Focuses light into a beam |
Fresnel lens | arrow_right_alt | Broadcasts vessel info electronically |
In 4–6 sentences, explain why lighthouses can still matter today even with GPS and other electronic navigation. Include at least ONE engineering reason (reliability, power, maintenance, environment) and at least ONE navigation reason (situational awareness, redundancy, human factors).