Timothy Tucker

 

11th / 12th

Students collaboratively design and construct a model of a theme-park rollercoaster. An accompanying manual contains a thorough and analytical exploration into each of six "design elements." The manual discusses energy, friction, motion, momentum, and Newton's laws applications of the six design elements.

Objective(s)  1. Make a list of all Physics formulae that could be used to analyze motion and energy., 2. Make technical "sketch" of layout., 3. Decide which formulae will be used at each design element., 4. Build a working model from the "sketch" and test it.

NETS: 

CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION: use models and simulations to explore complex systems and issues.

COMMUNICATION AND COLLABORATION: use digital media and environments to communicate and work collaboratively, including at a distance, to support individual learning and contribute to the learning of others.

RESEARCH AND INFORMATION FLUENCY: locate, organize, analyze, evaluate, synthesize, and ethically use information from a variety of sources and media.

CRITICAL THINKING, PROBLEM SOLVING AND DECISION MAKING: critical thinking skills to plan and conduct research, manage projects, solve problems, and make informed decisions using appropriate digital tools and resources.

DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP: exhibit a positive attitude toward using technology that supports collaboration, learning, and productivity.

TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS AND CONCEPTS: apply existing knowledge to generate new ideas, products, or processes.

Technology Tools Data Collection, Spreadsheets, Photography (Digital), Email

Procedures - 1. Students compile all formulae for calculating the following: energy (potential, kinetic, conservation, work, work-kinetic energy theorem), friction, momentum (linear and two-dimensional), impulse, Newton's laws (1st, 2nd, and 3rd). The compilation consists of linear and circular motion in multiple dimensions. The objective is to gain mastery of learned concepts and apply to new situations., 2. The technical "sketch" is an engineered visual hypothesis of how the six design elements will work together. The rough draft will be done pencil-and-paper style. The "sketch" will provide information on the scale, preliminary dimensions and materials required. The final "sketch" will be digitally drawn., 3. The arrangement of the six elements will determine how and where the compiled formulae will be used. The six design elements are: (1) Lift, (2) Curve, (3) Hill/Valley combination, (4) Loop, (5) Stop, (6) Electrical device (motor, gears, pulleys, lights, etc.)., 4. Students test their model to see if the roller coaster design is successful. If successful the rollercoaster car (marble, BB, etc.) will run completely through the six design elements without assistance. If unsuccessful, students must return to Step 2 and re-evaluate the design. Re-arrangement of design elements usually occurs.

Assessment The Roller Coaster: Writing and Presentation of Physics Concepts (RUBRIC)