Newton's in the Driver's Seat

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In this playful physics activity (page eight of the pdf), learners use toy cars to explore how speed and weight affect the results of collision. Designed as a pre- or post-visit lesson in connection to a trip to COSI Science Center in Central Ohio, this activity is also great as a stand alone exploration or a more general introduction to Newton's Laws. No tickets required!

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 11
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • 2 identical plastic toy cars
  • Yardstick

Keywords

Subjects

  • Physical Sciences
    • Motion and Forces
      • Momentum and Velocity
      • Acceleration
      • Newton's Laws

Informal Categories

  • Toys
  • Transportation

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Source Collection

  • Field Trips & Group Visits

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, COSI Columbus, 2009