Project 3

Dan Gielas

Avi Kagan

Dave Jou

Physical Principle

Physics of projectiles

Activity

A track containing a loop and a ramp will be provided. First we will demonstrate how to operate the cars and use them on the track. Then we will give a brief lesson on the basic physics of how the car sticks to the loop and why specific changes in the ramp produce specific changes in the flight path. Finally we will have the children attempt to guess what will happen given different situations with the car, loop and ramp.

Target Age Group – Our test with a group of 12 year olds seemed to be successful, and the girls in the group were interested and participated well. Twelve year olds seem to be at an ideal age for our activity.

Participation and Learning

The children will actually get to touch the cars and track and test different settings. Through this experience, we hope that they will be able to better understand the concepts of momentum and acceleration, along with other lessons.

Materials and Needs

We are using a commercial toy for our lesson due to its quality and reliability. Darda race cars and plastic track couple to a special adjustable setting ramp that will be produced using rapid prototyping. We would also benefit from some kind of ruler to measure flight length and possible a pillow for the cars to hit.

We feel that the activity we have come up with would be interesting and worthwhile for children in the target age group. This activity may help to inspire children to learn more about physics and how you can use science to answer real life questions. We think our concept has met the given requirements.