Think about a time you went to an amusement park: Did you ride a roller coaster? The teacups? Did you wonder how they worked? This project will help answer students' questions about this very idea.
In seventh grade my class attended our local amusement park to conduct math and data-gathering activities.
They had a blast! This year as 8th graders they will build on this joyous experience to develop their understanding of physics. This class loves Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) activities. Engineering challenges are embraced with zeal and tying it to their own real-world experiences will be highly engaging for this class. Many of the students are visual and kinesthetic learners, so building their own roller coaster and changing variables are fitting for their interest and abilities.
My Project
During our unit on physics, students will rotate through various stations between the two K'Nex kits to design, build and test multiple amusement park rides. These activities will be done in small groups, building their communication and collaboration skills as well as their physics knowledge. They will have opportunities to present their learning to other groups and even share their work with the 7th grade prior to their annual amusement park trip.
Donating to this project will allow my 8th grade students to participate in hands-on STEM projects related to their own lives.
It scales down something as enormous as a roller coaster to a level where they can understand the mechanisms and physics behind their favorite way to spend a summer day. You can inspire a future engineer!
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Chase and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.