The 8th grade accelerated students are currently studying the final unit for their 9th grade course requirement: Physics. The concepts in physics are often very abstract for the beginning student. Building a working prototype enables students to better understand the concepts.
The students will be given criteria to incorporate into their working roller coaster design.
They will need to demonstrate their understanding of Newton's Laws, friction, gravity, G-Force, force, acceleration, speed, and velocity. They will be given parameters to work under and will be given a friendly competitive environment to develop the best roller coaster. Their summative assessment will involve a trip to Kennywood and completion of several real world experiences demonstrating the physic concepts they incorporated into their roller coaster designs.
My Project
Due to the expense of the labs and Project Base Learning activities I utilize in my science and Gateway to Technology Classes I run an extremely tight budget. I continually strive to keep the student fees to a minimum. By soliciting donations that are matched during this window of time I am able to continue adding to the student experience without causing parents undo financial stress. I simply strive to level the playing field for our students and help prepare them for a competitive work force. Students will work in groups of four and design and build a working roller coaster prototype with 1000 craft sticks per group. They will use hot glue and glue guns to construct the final prototype. They will also be issued a single piece of poster board and one standard size marble. (the car) No other materials will be allowed. They must demonstrate Newton's Three Laws of Motion, Momentum, Acceleration, Speed, Banking and loop (G-Force), and safe ending.
By having a funded program through Donors Choose I will earn more points to allow me in the future ask for funding help involving field trips and special projects.
I would like to utilize this site to potentially seek matching funds and donations in the future.
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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. Depue and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.