Physics Internet Activities
The Physics of Amusement Park Rides
By Innovations in Technology
Project based learning fun for middle school and early high school students that focuses on the physics behind amusement park rides.
Students start the unit by researching information about how Newton's Laws of Physics impact the amusement park rides they love. They utilize an online simulation to see how changes in their design impact the fun and safety of the rides. Next, they research the history of roller coasters and showcase their work using PowerPoint or a Web 2.0 presentation tool. Finally, they design their own amusement park using Sketchup (or other CAD software) and finally put it all together in a presentation to share with their dream amusement park with the class, who evaluates their design.
Materials and lessons include:
1. Teacher and Student Resources
2. Amusement Park Physics Research (Questions, on-line simulation, vocabulary) – includes student worksheet and grading key
3. History of Roller Coasters Project (PowerPoint, Web 2.0, research)
4. Creating an Amusement Park in Sketchup Project (research, CAD design, PowerPoint summary and presentation to the class).
5. Student Presentation Evaluation Sheet
I've used this lesson with 8th graders in a high school credit Engineering class for several years and it is one of their favorites. I hope you students enjoy it!
Related Products
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⭐ The Physics of Bridges
⭐ The Physics of Geodesic Domes - STEM Design and Construction Project
⭐ The Physics of Windmills
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Space Station Design: Aerodynamics, Flight & Space | Distance Learning
By Innovations in Technology
The “Aerodynamics, Flight & Sustainable Life” project utilizes research skills, MS PowerPoint, and Sketchup (free CAD software download) to allow students to build skills in those programs along with skills in Internet research, reading, writing and critical thinking. In these projects, students research information about the history of aerodynamics, Newton’s Laws of flight and the physics behind them. They replicate a scale model drawing of a NASA space vehicle using Sketchup (CAD) and then research and design their own space station or community that will fully sustain life in space.
The project was created for grades 7-8 but could easily be adapted for younger or older students.
This lesson is great for distance learning/remote learning. You can upload it to your school's learning management system (Google Classroom, Edmodo, Canvas, etc.) or share with students via Google Drive.
Files Included with this Lesson
• Teacher Notes and Resources
• Aerodynamics History PowerPoint project Expectations and Grading Rubric
• Newton’s Laws Research Questions (includes answer key)
• Recreating a NASA Space Vehicle in Sketchup Project Expectations and Grading Rubric
• Project Samples for NASA Vehicle
• Designing a Space Station or Community in Sketchup Project Expectations and Grading Rubric
• Project Samples for Space Station/Community
Related Products
⭐ The Physics of Amusement Park Rides
⭐ The Physics of Bridges
⭐ The Physics of Geodesic Domes - STEM Design and Construction Project
⭐ The Physics of Windmills
Remember to leave feedback for credits on future purchases!
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