About This Lesson
Subjects
- Science
- Engineering
- Math
Time
- 60-120 minutes
Skills
- Teamwork
- Basic physics principals
- Measurement
- Engineering Design Process
Learning Objective/Goal:
- Understand the basic principles of physics and see how they work
- Apply engineering concepts to design and build a track that carries a marble continuously without stopping
- Evaluate the design and performance of their boats.
Materials Needed:
- Marbles
- Tape
- Track material (paper, cardboard, pool noodles, etc.)
- Furniture around the room (to support coasters)
- Scissors
Background
- Building a marble roller coaster is an engaging way to explore the principles of physics, such as gravity, potential energy, kinetic energy, and motion in an experimental way. This activity allows students to apply these concepts in a hands-on, creative project while fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Activity Introduction:
- Introduce the concept of rollercoasters and basic concepts such as gravity, potential energy (at the top of the coaster), and kinetic energy (as the marble travels down the track).
- Discuss how different design elements, like loops and turns, affect the marble’s motion.
Construction:
- Provide each team with their materials for making tracks
- Students should start building their marble roller coasters, making sure the marble can finish the course
- Encourage teamwork and problem-solving as they encounter challenges.
- Make sure students are clear on rules - what furniture/materials they can and can’t use
Testing:
- Provide each team with at least one marble and encourage them to test each component and the larger system frequently.
- Highlight that this is the process of iteration where their coasters are designed, tested, and redesigned
Presentation:
- Have the students show off their marble coasters and demonstrate how it works
- If they don'talreadt, prompt them to explain the marble's potential and kinetic energy at certain points.
Extra
Tips for Students:
- Don't waste resources! You may only have a set amount and you can’t uncut paper
- Think creatively about the design and aesthetic aspects of your coaster.
Tips for Teachers:
- Ensure students are being safe and keeping the mess contained
- There can be as much or as little material as you have or want the students to have
Extensions:
- Experiment with different starting heights to see how they affect the marble’s speed and travel distance.
- Test the impact of different track shapes and sizes on the marble’s performance.
- speed and travel distance.
- Link to Presentation
