Raceways

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In this activity, learners build a model roller coaster to help the Mummy entertain the Atom's Family monsters. Learners assemble the roller coaster between two chairs using vinyl ceiling molding. Learners explore potential and kinetic energy as the marble travels back and forth along the track. Learners also measure the highest point each time the marble rolls up the track as well as investigate energy loss and energy conversion.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Model
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • two chairs
  • masking tape
  • yard sticks
  • 3 shooter marbles
  • one 8-foot strip of vinyl ceiling molding

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Mechanical Engineering
  • Mathematics
    • Measurement
  • Physical Sciences
    • Energy
      • Potential and Kinetic Energy
    • Motion and Forces
      • Gravity
      • Acceleration
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Formulating Explanations

Informal Categories

  • Model Building
  • Toys

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Little, Carlyn ; LaHart, David ; Meyers, Ted ; Weisblat, Brooks

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Museum of Science, Inc. (Miami, FL), 1997

Funding Source:

  • Unisys