Plan
| Week 1 |
Day 1
|
Day 2
|
Day 3
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Introduction to Rollercoaster Physics - Begin with an engaging discussion on rollercoasters, focusing on the essential question: How can we design a rollercoaster that effectively uses the principles of forces and energy to ensure a thrilling yet safe ride? (10 min)
Concept Exploration: Forces and Energy - Introduce basic concepts of forces (gravity, tension, friction) and energy forms (potential and kinetic) through interactive demonstrations. Students will make predictions and observations. (20 min)
Team Formation and Brainstorming - Students form teams and brainstorm ideas for their mini rollercoaster models, considering the physics concepts introduced. Each team will document their initial ideas and questions. (10 min)
|
Design Challenge Kickoff - Launch the Rollercoaster Design Challenge. Provide teams with everyday materials to start constructing their initial rollercoaster models. Encourage experimentation with different designs. (20 min)
Guided Inquiry: Energy Transformation - Facilitate a hands-on activity where students explore energy transformation in their rollercoaster models. Discuss how potential energy converts to kinetic energy during motion. (15 min)
Reflection and Feedback Session - Teams reflect on their design process and receive peer feedback. Encourage students to pose questions and set goals for refining their models. (5 min)
|
Exploring Momentum and Collisions - Demonstrate the concept of momentum and discuss how it applies to rollercoasters. Use simple experiments to show how momentum is conserved in a system. (15 min)
Model Refinement and Testing - Students continue working on their rollercoaster models, applying feedback and new knowledge about momentum. Conduct tests to observe the effects of momentum and energy transfer. (20 min)
Closing Reflection - Conclude with a brief reflection where students share insights and challenges faced during the design process. Set objectives for the next session. (5 min)
|
| Deliverables |
1. Sketches of initial rollercoaster design concepts created by each student team.
2. A simple rollercoaster model built from everyday materials that demonstrates basic physics principles. 3. A list of questions generated for the guest speaker session, showing students' engagement and inquiry. 4. Reflections documenting each student's understanding of forces and energy, including observations from mini-experiments. |
||
| Preparation |
1. Gather everyday materials such as cardboard, tape, marbles, straws, and rubber bands for model building.
2. Set up interactive physics simulations online that focus on forces, energy transfer, and momentum. 3. Coordinate with community partners to arrange a guest speaker session with a rollercoaster engineer. 4. Prepare visual aids or presentation slides that illustrate the principles of forces and energy in rollercoasters. 5. Create a list of essential questions for students to consider during the brainstorming session. |
||
| Week 2 |
Day 4
|
Day 5
|
Day 6
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Exploring Forces and Motion - Begin with a hands-on activity using small objects and ramps to explore concepts of force, motion, and gravity. Students will predict and observe how these forces interact. (20 min)
Discussion on Forces in Rollercoasters - Facilitate a group discussion on how the observed forces are present in rollercoaster designs, connecting real-world examples to their findings. (20 min)
|
Momentum and Collisions Demonstration - Conduct a demonstration using balls of different masses to illustrate momentum and collisions, guiding students to make connections to rollercoaster physics. (25 min)
Reflect and Record - Students reflect on the demonstration, recording their observations and insights in their project journals to track their learning journey. (15 min)
|
Energy Types and Transformation Exploration - Engage students in a hands-on activity using rubber bands and weights to explore potential and kinetic energy transformations, emphasizing energy conservation. (20 min)
Energy Transfer in Rollercoasters - Facilitate a discussion on how energy transforms during a rollercoaster ride, encouraging students to think about how they can optimize these processes in their designs. (20 min)
|
| Deliverables |
1. A basic mini rollercoaster model constructed using everyday materials, demonstrating initial understanding of forces and energy principles.
2. Completion of a digital simulation that tests different track designs and observes energy transfer and momentum conservation in a virtual environment. 3. Reflection journal entries summarizing insights from the theme park visit or virtual tour and connecting observations to physics concepts. 4. Feedback sheets from peer and teacher evaluations, providing constructive input on each team's rollercoaster design. 5. A list of questions generated by students for the upcoming Q&A session with engineers, reflecting their curiosity and understanding of rollercoaster physics. |
||
| Preparation |
1. Gather examples of everyday materials (paper, cardboard, tape, straws, etc.) for mini rollercoaster model construction.
2. Set up a classroom station with computers and physics simulation software for digital experimentation. 3. Coordinate with local theme parks for a potential visit or virtual tour to observe real rollercoasters in action. 4. Prepare a list of guiding questions for students to reflect on their observations and learning. 5. Prepare a feedback rubric for peer and teacher evaluations of initial rollercoaster designs. 6. Contact engineers from community partners to schedule a virtual Q&A session on rollercoaster physics. |
||
| Week 3 |
Day 7
|
Day 8
|
Day 9
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Momentum Exploration through Experiments - Students conduct experiments using toy cars and ramps to explore the concept of momentum. They will measure speed and analyze how mass and velocity affect momentum, documenting their observations. (20 min)
Application to Rollercoaster Design - Facilitate a discussion on how momentum principles can be applied to their rollercoaster models, encouraging students to brainstorm modifications that could enhance their design's performance. (20 min)
|
Energy Conservation Simulation - Guide students in using a simple physics simulation tool to visualize energy conservation in rollercoasters. They will adjust variables to see the impact on energy transfer and efficiency. (20 min)
Model Adjustments and Testing - Students apply insights from the simulation to make adjustments to their rollercoaster models and conduct tests to observe changes in energy conservation and momentum. (20 min)
|
Peer Review and Feedback Session - Host a session where teams present their rollercoaster models and receive constructive feedback from peers, focusing on the application of forces, momentum, and energy conservation. (20 min)
Reflection and Goal Setting - Students reflect on the feedback received and set objectives for further refinement of their models. Encourage them to document their thoughts and next steps in their project journals. (20 min)
|
| Deliverables |
1. Each student team creates and tests a mini rollercoaster model using provided materials, focusing on the application of forces and energy principles.
2. Students draft a short report on their model, explaining how they accounted for forces, momentum, and energy conservation in their design. 3. Upload a digital sketch or initial design of their rollercoaster model to the collaborative platform for peer and teacher feedback. 4. Participate in a Q&A session with the Legoland engineer, preparing at least two questions related to real-world rollercoaster design. 5. Complete a self-reflection activity where students assess their learning progress, design challenges, and set goals for the coming weeks. |
||
| Preparation |
1. Gather everyday materials such as cardboard, straws, tape, and marbles for mini rollercoaster model construction.
2. Arrange a virtual guest session with an engineer from Legoland to discuss rollercoaster design principles. 3. Prepare a simple guide on forces, energy, and momentum suitable for high school students. 4. Set up a collaborative digital platform (e.g., Google Classroom) for students to upload and share their rollercoaster designs and receive feedback. 5. Organize a reflection and feedback form for students to record their learning and design process. |
||
| Week 4 |
Day 10
|
Day 11
|
Day 12
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Exploring Tension and Friction - Students will engage in an interactive demonstration to understand the role of tension and friction in rollercoaster design. They will explore how these forces can be managed to improve ride safety and efficiency. (20 min)
Hands-On Experiment: Tension in Action - In small groups, students will use rubber bands and weights to experiment with tension. They will adjust variables to observe how changes affect the potential and kinetic energy of their rollercoaster models. (15 min)
Reflection and Discussion - Students will reflect on their experiments and discuss how tension and friction impact rollercoaster performance, documenting their insights in their project journals. (5 min)
|
Introduction to Momentum Conservation - Begin with a short video or demonstration illustrating momentum conservation in real-world scenarios, such as collisions on a rollercoaster. This will set the context for deeper exploration. (10 min)
Guided Activity: Momentum in Rollercoasters - Using small models, students will explore how momentum is conserved during the ride, focusing on collision points and system interactions. They will record observations and discuss findings with peers. (20 min)
Peer Review and Feedback - Students will pair up and provide feedback on each other's understanding of momentum conservation, using guided questions to support constructive critique. (10 min)
|
Energy Transfer Simulation - Introduce students to a simple physics simulation software where they can model energy transfer in their rollercoaster designs. They will manipulate variables to see how energy conservation affects the ride. (20 min)
Problem-Solving Workshop: Optimizing Energy - Students will work in teams to identify areas in their models where energy transfer can be optimized, applying critical thinking to refine their designs based on simulation results. (15 min)
Closing Reflection and Goal Setting - Conclude with a group reflection session where students share insights from the week's activities and set personal goals for further improving their rollercoaster models. (5 min)
|
| Deliverables |
1. Students will submit a report detailing their experiment observations, focusing on the impact of friction and gravity on motion.
2. Teams will present a mini rollercoaster model showcasing their understanding of momentum conservation and energy transfer. 3. Students will complete a reflection journal entry, articulating how their learning connects to real-world rollercoaster design principles. |
||
| Preparation |
1. Gather materials such as toy cars, ramps, flexible tubes, marbles, and various surface materials for experiments.
2. Prepare reflection prompts and discussion guides to facilitate critical thinking and peer feedback during reflection sessions. 3. Coordinate with community partners to arrange for engineers to attend the reflection session and provide real-world insights. |
||
| Week 5 |
Day 13
|
Day 14
|
Day 15
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Rollercoaster Forces Exploration - Students engage in hands-on activities using springs and weights to explore how different forces like gravity, tension, and friction impact rollercoaster motion. They will document their observations and draw connections to their rollercoaster designs. (20 min)
Energy Types and Transfer Discussion - Facilitate a group discussion on potential and kinetic energy, emphasizing energy conservation. Encourage students to consider how these energy types transfer during a rollercoaster ride and brainstorm ways to optimize this in their designs. (20 min)
|
Momentum in Rollercoasters Experiment - Conduct experiments using marbles and ramps to demonstrate momentum and its conservation. Students will measure and analyze how mass and speed affect momentum, linking findings to their rollercoaster models. (20 min)
Design Refinement Workshop - Teams apply insights from forces and momentum activities to refine their rollercoaster designs. They will focus on optimizing energy transfer and minimizing forces during collisions. (20 min)
|
Peer Feedback and Iteration Session - Host a session where teams share their refined rollercoaster models and receive constructive feedback from peers, focusing on the application of forces, momentum, and energy principles. (20 min)
Reflection and Goal Setting - Students reflect on feedback received and set objectives for further refinement of their models. They will document their thoughts and next steps in their project journals to track their learning journey. (20 min)
|
| Deliverables |
1. Completed mini rollercoaster models using everyday materials.
2. Digital simulations of rollercoaster tracks demonstrating energy transfer and momentum conservation. 3. A reflective journal entry detailing observations from the theme park visit and insights gained. 4. A list of questions for engineers during Q&A sessions based on rollercoaster design and physics principles. 5. Video presentations showcasing each team's rollercoaster design process and applied physics concepts. 6. Peer and teacher feedback sheets on mini rollercoaster models. |
||
| Preparation |
1. Gather materials for building mini rollercoaster models: cardboard, plastic tubes, marbles, glue, tape.
2. Prepare digital tools for creating simulations: computers or tablets with physics simulation software. 3. Coordinate with community partners to schedule visits from engineers for Q&A sessions. 4. Arrange transportation and permissions for Reflection Day visit to Six Flags. 5. Organize classroom layout to facilitate team collaboration and model building. 6. Prepare reflection prompts and discussion guides for theme park visit. 7. Set up video recording equipment for student presentations. |
||
| Week 6 |
Day 16
|
Day 17
|
Day 18
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Momentum and Energy in Rollercoasters - Begin with an interactive discussion on how momentum and energy principles apply to rollercoaster design. Students will review key concepts and connect them to their current model work. (15 min)
Hands-On Activity: Energy and Momentum Calculations - Students will engage in a guided activity where they calculate potential and kinetic energy, as well as momentum, for different sections of their rollercoaster models, using real data collected from tests. (20 min)
Reflection and Goal Setting - Students will reflect on their calculations, discussing insights and challenges. They will set goals for how to apply these insights to improve their designs. (5 min)
|
Design Refinement: Applying Energy Transformations - Facilitate a workshop where students focus on optimizing energy transformations in their rollercoaster designs. Encourage them to experiment with modifications that enhance energy efficiency. (20 min)
Peer Review and Feedback - Students will present their design modifications to peers, receiving constructive feedback focused on the effective use of energy transformations and momentum. (15 min)
Documenting Changes - Students will update their project journals with the feedback received and document the changes they plan to implement. (5 min)
|
Simulation Exploration: Virtual Rollercoaster Design - Guide students in using physics simulation software to model their rollercoaster designs. They will experiment with different configurations to observe energy and momentum conservation virtually. (20 min)
Problem-Solving Session: Simulation Insights - In teams, students will discuss the insights gained from the simulation and brainstorm ways to incorporate these into their physical models. (15 min)
Closing Reflection and Next Steps - Conclude with a reflection session where students share their learning from the simulation and set actionable next steps for model improvements. (5 min)
|
| Deliverables |
1. Group-created simple rollercoaster models demonstrating forces.
2. Documented group observations of momentum and collisions from marble track experiments. 3. Individual project journal entries analyzing energy transfer and conversion experiments. |
||
| Preparation |
1. Prepare materials for building simple rollercoaster models such as cardboard, tape, and string.
2. Set up marble tracks and provide marbles for momentum and collision experiments. 3. Create worksheets to guide observations on energy transfer and conversion during experiments. 4. Ensure access to project journals for documentation. 5. Coordinate with community partners for potential virtual guest speaker sessions or video resources on physics in rollercoaster design. |
||
| Week 7 |
Day 19
|
Day 20
|
Day 21
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Community Partner Introduction - Host a virtual session with engineers from Legoland to discuss the real-world application of physics principles in rollercoaster design. Students will prepare questions in advance. (15 min)
Energy and Forces in Real Rollercoasters - Analyze videos of actual rollercoasters to identify the forces and energy transformations occurring during the ride. Students will note observations in their project journals. (15 min)
Group Reflection and Discussion - Students discuss their insights from the community partner session and video analysis, focusing on how these can inform their own rollercoaster designs. (10 min)
|
Simulation Refinement Session - Students use physics simulation software to tweak their digital rollercoaster models, focusing on optimizing energy transfer and minimizing forces during collisions. (20 min)
Peer Collaboration: Feedback and Iteration - Teams pair up to provide feedback on each other's simulations, offering suggestions for further refinement based on observed physics principles. (15 min)
Set Goals for Model Improvement - Students document their feedback and set specific goals for improving their 3D-printed rollercoaster models based on simulation insights. (5 min)
|
Hands-On Model Refinement - Teams work on their physical rollercoaster models, implementing changes based on simulation feedback and energy optimization goals. (20 min)
Testing and Data Collection - Conduct tests on the refined models, collecting data on speed, energy conservation, and momentum. Students will analyze results to ensure design improvements. (15 min)
Reflection and Insights Sharing - Conclude with a reflection session where students share how their models have evolved and what physics concepts were most helpful in their design process. (5 min)
|
| Deliverables |
1. Simple rollercoaster model demonstrating forces and energy conservation
2. Digital simulation of rollercoaster track with data analysis 3. Refined rollercoaster design based on feedback 4. Reflection journal entry documenting learning process and insights |
||
| Preparation |
1. Arrange Q&A session with theme park engineers
2. Set up physics simulation software on computers 3. Gather materials for rollercoaster model experiments 4. Prepare reflection and feedback forms for students |
||
| Week 8 |
Day 22
|
Day 23
|
Day 24
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Virtual Rollercoaster Design - Students use physics simulation software to create digital rollercoaster models, experimenting with track designs to observe energy transfer and momentum conservation. (20 min)
Feedback and Iteration Session - Students present their virtual designs to peers, receiving feedback focused on optimizing energy efficiency and forces. They will document insights for refining their designs. (20 min)
|
Optimization Workshop: Real vs. Virtual Models - Facilitate a workshop where students compare their real rollercoaster models with virtual designs, identifying areas for improvement based on energy and momentum insights. (20 min)
Hands-On Refinement - Students apply feedback and insights to refine their physical rollercoaster models, focusing on enhancing energy transfer and minimizing forces during collisions. (20 min)
|
Reflection and Goal Setting - Students reflect on their design process, documenting successes and challenges faced. They set objectives for further refinement and preparation for the upcoming showcase. (20 min)
Preparation for Rollercoaster Showcase Day - Guide students in preparing presentations that articulate their design process, physics concepts applied, and how they addressed challenges. (20 min)
|
| Deliverables |
1. Completed mini rollercoaster prototypes demonstrating understanding of forces, momentum, and energy.
2. Digital simulations of rollercoaster tracks showing energy transfer and momentum conservation. 3. Peer feedback forms filled out for two other groups' rollercoaster models. 4. Self-reflection journals documenting the design process and feedback implementation. 5. Questions prepared for the guest engineer session, focusing on real-world rollercoaster physics applications. |
||
| Preparation |
1. Gather materials for building rollercoaster prototypes, including foam tubing, marbles, tape, and scissors.
2. Ensure computers with internet access are available for students to use online physics simulation tools. 3. Coordinate with community partners for a guest speaker session with an engineer from a local theme park. 4. Prepare a rubric for peer review sessions, focusing on force, energy, and momentum principles. 5. Set up a space for students to test and refine their mini rollercoaster models. 6. Prepare a feedback form for students to use during self-reflection and peer feedback sessions. |
||
| Week 9 |
Day 25
|
Day 26
|
Day 27
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Introduction to 3D Printing - Begin with a discussion on the 3D printing process and its applications in engineering and design. Students will explore how this technology can be used to bring their rollercoaster models to life. (15 min)
Design Finalization - Students will work in teams to finalize their rollercoaster designs, ensuring all necessary adjustments are made based on prior feedback and testing. (20 min)
Preparation for 3D Printing - Guide students in preparing their digital rollercoaster models for 3D printing. They will learn how to export their designs to a compatible format. (5 min)
|
3D Model Review Session - Facilitate a peer review session where students share their finalized 3D models and provide constructive feedback on design elements and physics application. (20 min)
Reflect and Document - Students will reflect on feedback received and document any last-minute changes needed before submitting their models for 3D printing. (10 min)
Submit for 3D Printing - Students will submit their finalized rollercoaster models to be 3D printed, ensuring all files are correctly formatted and ready for production. (10 min)
|
Exploring Real-World Applications - Host a virtual guest speaker session with an engineer from a community partner like Legoland to discuss the practical applications of physics in rollercoaster construction. (15 min)
Discussion on Real-World Insights - Engage students in a discussion on how insights from the guest speaker session can enhance their understanding of rollercoaster design and physics. (15 min)
Reflection and Goal Setting for Next Steps - Students reflect on their learning journey so far and set goals for the upcoming weeks, focusing on the exhibition and final presentation of their work. (10 min)
|
| Deliverables |
1. Completed digital simulations of rollercoaster tracks demonstrating energy transfer and momentum conservation.
2. A reflection journal entry where students document insights and observations from the theme park visit. 3. A list of prepared questions and a summary of answers from the engineers during the Q&A session. 4. Updated mini rollercoaster models, refined based on digital simulation insights and peer feedback. 5. A peer review feedback form completed for at least two other groups, containing constructive criticism and suggestions for improvement. |
||
| Preparation |
1. Ensure access to physics software for digital simulations and provide tutorials on its use.
2. Organize transportation and permissions for the theme park visit, and arrange for chaperones. 3. Coordinate with community partners to schedule the Q&A session with engineers. 4. Prepare guidelines and rubrics for the peer review session to help students provide constructive feedback. 5. Gather materials needed for adjustments to the mini rollercoaster models, such as additional building materials or tools. |
||
| Week 10 |
Day 28
|
Day 29
|
Day 30
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
3D Printed Model Review - Students receive their 3D-printed rollercoaster models and conduct a detailed inspection, noting any discrepancies between the digital design and the physical model. (15 min)
Design Improvement Workshop - Facilitate a session where students brainstorm potential improvements for their models based on the review. Encourage them to focus on optimizing energy transfer and minimizing force during collisions. (15 min)
Reflection and Documentation - Students document their observations and planned improvements in their project journals, setting objectives for the next iteration. (10 min)
|
Hands-On Model Modification - Students work on making the necessary physical adjustments and refinements to their 3D-printed models according to their improvement plans. (20 min)
Testing and Data Collection - Conduct tests on the modified models, focusing on measuring speed, energy efficiency, and momentum conservation. Encourage students to record their findings. (15 min)
Group Discussion and Feedback - Host a discussion where students share their testing results and receive feedback on further enhancements from peers. (5 min)
|
Preparation for Rollercoaster Showcase - Guide students in preparing a presentation that highlights their design process, the physics principles applied, and the improvements made. (20 min)
Rehearsal and Peer Review - Students rehearse their presentations with peers, receiving constructive feedback to improve clarity and effectiveness. (15 min)
Reflection and Goal Setting - Students reflect on the feedback received during rehearsal and set specific goals for finalizing their presentations, ensuring readiness for the showcase. (5 min)
|
| Deliverables |
1. A refined rollercoaster design that incorporates feedback and shows improved energy efficiency and safety features.
2. A digital simulation of the rollercoaster design, demonstrating understanding of energy transfer and momentum conservation. 3. A reflection journal entry detailing the design process, feedback received, and the impact of that feedback on their project. 4. A list of questions for the guest engineer that connects classroom learning to real-world physics applications. 5. A visual representation of the design process, including changes made based on feedback and simulations. |
||
| Preparation |
1. Prepare a set of feedback forms to guide peer and teacher evaluations of student designs.
2. Acquire access to digital physics simulation software and ensure all students have the necessary login credentials. 3. Coordinate with community partners to arrange a guest engineer Q&A session. 4. Gather materials for students to create visual representations of their design iterations, such as paper, markers, and digital presentation tools. 5. Set up a reflection journal template for students to use during the guided reflection session. |
||
| Week 11 |
Day 31
|
Day 32
|
Day 33
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Final Model Adjustments - Students work on finalizing any last-minute changes to their 3D-printed rollercoaster models based on previous feedback and testing results. (20 min)
Data Collection and Analysis - Conduct a final round of testing on the completed models, collecting data on energy efficiency and momentum conservation. Students will analyze results and document insights. (20 min)
|
Presentation Development - Guide students in crafting a comprehensive presentation that details their rollercoaster design process, the physics principles applied, and the challenges overcome. (20 min)
Peer Feedback and Revision - Students present their drafts to peers and receive constructive feedback, focusing on clarity and the effective communication of physics concepts. (20 min)
|
Rehearsal and Refinement - Students rehearse their presentations, making final adjustments to content and delivery based on peer and teacher feedback to ensure readiness for the upcoming showcase. (20 min)
Reflection and Goal Setting - Conduct a reflective session where students review what they’ve learned throughout the project and set personal goals for the final showcase presentation. (20 min)
|
| Deliverables |
1. Reflection journals documenting insights and learnings from the theme park visit and engineer Q&A.
2. A list of refined design ideas and action plans for final adjustments to the rollercoaster models. 3. A summary presentation of how student designs incorporate feedback and real-world physics applications. |
||
| Preparation |
1. Arrange transportation and necessary permissions for the Reflection Day visit to a local theme park.
2. Coordinate with engineers and community partners to schedule the Q&A session. 3. Prepare a list of physics concepts for students to focus on during the theme park visit and engineer interaction. 4. Ensure all students have access to the necessary materials and software for the final design refinement session. 5. Set up a reflection journal template for students to document their insights from the theme park visit and engineer Q&A. |
||
| Week 12 |
Day 34
|
Day 35
|
Day 36
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Rollercoaster Showcase Prep - Students finalize their showcase presentations, ensuring clear communication of their design process and physics principles applied. (20 min)
Peer Feedback Session - Students present their final presentation drafts to peers, receiving feedback focused on clarity, engagement, and effective communication of concepts. (15 min)
Reflection and Revision - Students reflect on feedback received, make necessary adjustments, and rehearse their presentations for better delivery. (5 min)
|
Final Presentation Rehearsal - Students rehearse their presentations for the Rollercoaster Showcase, focusing on delivery and timing. Encourage peer review for constructive feedback. (20 min)
Exhibition Setup Planning - Guide students in planning the setup for the Rollercoaster Design Expo, deciding on display arrangements and interactive elements. (15 min)
Group Reflection and Goal Setting - Reflect on the learning journey, highlighting key insights and setting final goals for the showcase. (5 min)
|
Rollercoaster Design Expo Preparation - Students finalize their 3D models and digital simulations for the expo. Ensure readiness for presentation and interaction with community partners. (20 min)
Expo Rehearsal and Setup - Conduct a rehearsal of the Rollercoaster Design Expo, practicing presentation flow and setup logistics. (15 min)
Feedback and Final Adjustments - Students receive last-minute feedback from peers and teachers, making any final adjustments to their presentations and exhibits. (5 min)
|
| Deliverables |
1. Complete digital simulations demonstrating energy transfer and momentum conservation in rollercoaster tracks.
2. Submit final design adjustments for 3D printing based on simulation results and feedback. 3. Participate in a reflection session after the Six Flags trip, discussing real-world applications of physics principles. 4. Attend the engineer Q&A session and submit a list of questions and insights gained from the discussion. 5. Complete self-reflection journals documenting learning progress and adjustments made to designs. 6. Prepare a draft script for a video presentation that highlights the design process and physics concepts applied. |
||
| Preparation |
1. Coordinate with local theme park, Six Flags, for a field trip and organize transportation and permissions.
2. Schedule a guest speaker session with engineers from Legoland to facilitate a Q&A on rollercoaster physics. 3. Prepare materials for digital simulation, including access to physics simulation software and computers. 4. Gather feedback forms for students to use during field visits and engineer Q&A sessions. 5. Ensure 3D printers are functional and ready for final print submissions of rollercoaster models. 6. Create reflection prompts and discussion questions for post-visit and guest speaker sessions. |
||
| Week 13 |
Day 37
|
Day 38
|
Day 39
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Final Presentation Preparation - Students refine their presentations, ensuring all physics principles and design processes are clearly communicated. Review and integrate feedback from past rehearsals. (20 min)
Peer Review and Feedback - Presentations are shared with peers for final feedback. Encourage constructive critique focused on clarity and demonstration of physics concepts. (15 min)
Reflection and Adjustments - Students reflect on peer feedback and make necessary adjustments to finalize their presentations for the showcase. (5 min)
|
Rollercoaster Showcase Day Setup - Students prepare the exhibition space, organizing their 3D-printed models, digital simulations, and presentation materials. (15 min)
Showcase Rehearsal - Conduct a final run-through of the showcase presentations with peers and teachers, ensuring readiness and confidence in delivery. (15 min)
Guided Reflection - Facilitate a session where students reflect on their learning journey, discussing key insights and how they applied physics concepts throughout the project. (10 min)
|
Rollercoaster Design Expo - Host the exhibition where students present their projects to community partners, peers, and teachers, articulating their design process and physics applications. (30 min)
Feedback and Recognition - Community partners and educators provide feedback on the projects, recognizing innovative designs and effective application of physics principles. (10 min)
Closing Reflection and Celebration - Conclude with a reflection session celebrating student achievements, discussing the impact of their learning on future endeavors. (10 min)
|
| Deliverables |
1. 3D-printed rollercoaster model showcasing understanding of forces, momentum, and energy conservation.
2. Digital simulation of rollercoaster design demonstrating energy transfer and momentum conservation. 3. Reflection video diary detailing the student's project journey and learning experiences. 4. Presentation at the Rollercoaster Design Expo articulating the physics principles applied in their designs. 5. Participation in the Reflection Day discussions, connecting theoretical learning with real-world rollercoaster experiences. |
||
| Preparation |
1. Arrange logistics and invitations for community partners to participate in the Rollercoaster Design Expo.
2. Ensure all 3D-printed rollercoaster models are completed and ready for presentation. 3. Set up digital simulation stations with necessary software and equipment for student presentations. 4. Prepare reflection video diary templates and ensure students have access to recording equipment. 5. Coordinate transportation and permissions for the Reflection Day outing to a local theme park. 6. Gather feedback forms and award certificates for the Rollercoaster Design Expo. |
||