My students are a diverse group of 7th and 8th-grade-students from a variety of backgrounds; socioeconomically, ethnically, and academically. They attend an urban public charter school in Indianapolis.Being a public charter school, we do not receive the large sums of money other public schools receive. This does not, however, dampen their love of science.
My students LOVE science and are curious about the world around them, however, they do not have many experiences outside of their community and because of this, they struggle to see the connection between science and their own lives.
They are budding scientists, ready to solve the world's problems. Hands-on learning is the most effective way for students to understand the sometimes difficult standards of physics. By creating and racing pinewood derby cars, my students will be able to see physics in motion!
My Project
Physics is often taught in a very dry, boring manner. This is why many students do not like it or pursue it as a career choice. By incorporating hands-on engineering into physics, students are able to SEE physics. Students will first learn about the concepts of Newton's Laws of Motion, and then, to prove what they know, they will design and create their own pinewood derby cars to race!
From designing, to cutting and painting, to racing their cars, physics will become a real force in students lives when they can touch it, see it, and ultimately understand it!
All of those formulas will begin to come into focus when students are busy calculating data for their own cars. They will be doing physics, while having fun!!
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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 Mrs. Schurtz and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
