Phase 3: Expanding Knowledge

The project moves ahead with mini-experiences in each of four job roles on a roller coaster design team.

Students use their knowledge as they engage in mini architect (math), engineer (science), public relations (language arts), and researcher (social studies) tasks that prepare them for the culminating project in Phase 5.  This allows all students to experience all job roles and learn the valuable information embedded in each.

• Phase 3 Science: Mini-Engineer Experience >
  Students test design ideas using online simulations and then create maquettes, or 3-D models of a roller coaster design.

• Phase 3 Math: Mini-Architect Experience >
  Students build and test roller coaster track designs, using photogates to investigate and compare acceleration. They draw continuous side and top views of their maquette, and complete several calculations on their designs.

• Phase 3 Language Arts: Mini-Public Relations Experience >
  Students learn about persuasive techniques used in advertising and write a persuasive business letter.

• Phase 3 Social Studies: Mini-Researcher Experience >
  Research finds a focus in thesis statements. Students work in small groups to develop a thesis and several questions to guide research.