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All grades  Project 13 weeks

Rollercoaster Physics: 3D Thrill Ride!

Maggie H
D7.2
B4.2
HS-PS2-3
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage students in a dynamic, hands-on learning experience that bridges theoretical physics with practical application through the design and creation of rollercoasters. By collaborating with community partners and utilizing real-world contexts, students will deepen their understanding of forces, momentum, and energy conservation while developing essential skills in self-directed learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving. This project aims to foster an academic mindset by encouraging students to explore their identity and sense of belonging within the scientific community, ultimately enhancing their self-efficacy and enthusiasm for learning.

Learning goals

Students will design and construct rollercoaster models, applying principles of forces, momentum, and energy conservation to ensure safety and efficiency. They will engage in self-directed learning, utilizing feedback and reflection to refine their designs. Through critical thinking and problem-solving, students will explore innovative approaches to optimize energy transfer and transformation. They will develop an academic mindset by establishing connections with community partners and participating in real-world experiences, enhancing their understanding of physics in rollercoaster design.
Standards
  • [California] D7.2 - Understand how the laws of conservation of energy and momentum provide a way to predict and describe the movement of objects.
  • [California] B4.2 - Explain how the laws of conservation of energy and momentum provide a way to predict and describe the movement of objects.
  • [California] HS-PS2-3 - Apply science and engineering ideas to design, evaluate, and refine a device that minimizes the force on a macroscopic object during a collision.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Throughout the project, students will collaboratively create mini rollercoaster models using everyday materials, which will be iteratively refined based on peer and teacher feedback. By the end of the project, each team will produce a 3D-printed rollercoaster model that demonstrates their understanding of forces, momentum, and energy principles. Additionally, students will develop a digital simulation of their rollercoaster track, allowing them to showcase energy transfer and momentum conservation in a virtual environment. These products will be presented during the Rollercoaster Showcase Day and the Rollercoaster Design Expo, where students will articulate their design process and the physics concepts applied.

Launch

Kick off the learning experience with an exciting "Rollercoaster Design Challenge" workshop, where students work in teams to create mini rollercoaster models using everyday materials. This hands-on activity will focus on applying principles of forces and energy, encouraging students to brainstorm, design, and test their models. By collaborating and experimenting, students will lay the groundwork for understanding the physics concepts that will be explored throughout the project.

Exhibition

Students will participate in a 'Rollercoaster Design Expo,' where they will present their 3D-printed rollercoaster models and digital simulations to an audience of peers, teachers, and community partners. Local engineers and representatives from theme parks like Legoland and Six Flags will be invited to evaluate the projects, offering feedback and recognizing achievements in creativity and the effective application of physics principles. This event will serve as a platform for students to articulate their learning journey, discuss the physics concepts utilized in their designs, and engage with real-world professionals, fostering a deeper connection between classroom learning and industry practices.
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