Rockin’ Rollercoasters Teach Physics At Sartartia Middle School

By: FortBendNow Staff on Wed, Nov 18, 2009

News

Students in Sartartia Middle School’s 7th grade science classes were able to figure out how fast a roller coaster must travel to make it through loops and over hills with a first-hand perspective in engineering design this year. 

Alex Remy and Christopher Nguyen with their rollercoaster, the “Texas Tumbler.”

Alex Remy and Christopher Nguyen with their rollercoaster, the “Texas Tumbler.”

 

As students were exploring physics principles such as potential/kinetic energy, velocity, and friction, they designed and tested foam rollercoasters for marbles.  Students completed a paper design of the project, then built and tested their coaster. The students named their rollercoaster and created a media advertisement to promote it. 

 

“It was a great showing of teamwork and camaraderie, and a great learning experience,” said Jennifer Slater, 7th grade science teacher.

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