Solar Cars

My Students: Do you remember how teachers would tell you things, but you did not have the resources to try them on your own? I would like my students to be able to learn about solar energy...

My Project: I would like to begin the unit with a discussion about the different types of renewable resources, and how they are used. We can debate the pros and cons of each type and disc... more»

My Students: Do you remember how teachers would tell you things, but you did not have the resources to try them on your own? I would like my students to be able to learn about solar energy by building solar cars and racing them. They

can then make adjustments, and try to win the next race!

I work in a Title I school in NY. School budgets are very tight now, and we are not able to purchase new materials. This particular group of students have the chance to be college bound as they are among the highest level students in the school. I would love for them to achieve academic success in this AP class, and to gain life skills that will encourage their curiosity, creativity, and confidence.

My Project: I would like to begin the unit with a discussion about the different types of renewable resources, and how they are used. We can debate the pros and cons of each type and discuss how they would best be utilized. As a culminating project, each pair of students would build a solar race car. They can form predictions as to which type of car will be the fastest. Among the two groups using the same type of car, they can modify their models and try to predict what they can do to make theirs more efficient and faster. Other experiments could include turning radius, uphill ramps, curb jumps, etc. While fostering some friendly competition, students are learning about experimental design, solar panels, engineering, and teamwork.

Your donation will open up their eyes to how science is applied to the real world. It will show them that science is a fun and creative field. It will enable them to challenge their minds and realize that they can help to make a difference and to protect our world. hide»