The instructor was interested in easy-to-use equipment that would allow students to explore the following NGSS standard and learning targets, along with students being able to successfully complete a design project that represented their comprehension.
NGSS STANDARD: HS-PS3-3 Design, build, and refine a device that works within given constraints to convert one form of energy into another form of energy.
Learning Targets:
The Blu Track staff was able to work directly with the instructor. Through discussions about how their educational materials can be used in the classroom and laboratory setting, the Blu Track staff recommended a variety of products specifically designed for hands-on student experiences.
Students were tasked with designing, sketching, building, testing, and modifying a roller coaster using Blu Track materials. This roller coaster needed to meet certain criteria, such as three hills, a loop, a turn, and/or a jump. Students were to label the roller coaster with terms, such as highest and lowest kinetic energy, highest and lowest potential energy, and reference point. This group project has been done with a variety of age groups and abilities. It can be modified to include extension activities, such as changing the mass of the car or ball on the track, performing calculations, determining the average and instantaneous speed of the roller coaster, and producing video presentations.
Students gained an understanding of mechanical energy, including the relationship between potential energy and kinetic energy. This project helped students implement engineering concepts into their discussions, work together in teams, and create their own design that meets specific guidelines. This is an open-ended project that allows for a variety of configurations. The roller coaster endeavor using Blu Track materials is now an annual tradition, as students have responded positively to the project. It is impressive to see students stick with an activity until they achieve success.
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Problem Adding variety with hands on STEM activities for families during our STEM night at the middle school How Blu
The Problem Developing summer reading activities that offer meaningful engagement for a wide variety of ages and fosters creativity and
