STEM Challenge: Balloon-Powered Racecars and the Laws of Motion
Class Description
What makes objects move? Is it possible to power a small moving vehicle with something other than gas or electricity? In this STEM Challenge class, you will discover the Laws of Motion by engaging in several activities and experiments using everyday household items. Working as student-scientists, you will observe and record examples of motion to find out if there are situations when these laws don’t work as expected. Finally, you will construct a small racecar using only recyclable items which you will then attempt to power with a balloon. Are you up for the challenge?
During our first meeting we will:
* Engage in several “can you…” challenges where we explore and test the ideas of motion using hand-constructed paper airplanes and parachutes, as well as balloons.
* Explore, discuss, and take notes on Newton’s Laws of Motion (students will be provided with a worksheet).
During our second meeting we will:
* Share and discuss our journal findings.
* Revisit the Laws of Motion based on our findings.
* Discuss the directions for building our racecars.
During our third meeting we will:
* Share our racecars and data.
* Engage in a virtual race day!
Class Requirements
None
Class Supplies
Materials needed for this class:
Plain printer paper (or other paper of your choice for building a paper airplane, templates will also be provided)
Items suitable for building a parachute canopy such as tissue paper, newspaper, plain paper, or plastic bags
String or yarn
Scissors
Tape (masking, painters, or duct tape)
Standard 9” balloons
Straws (non-bending, any material)
empty boxes (cracker, cereal), bottle caps, cardboard, and other materials for making racecars
FAQ
Will homework be assigned?
Yes, students will be asked to engage in some activities between classes to prepare for the following class. Mostly this will involve making observations of how objects move and journaling about these observations to share at the next meeting. Students will also make their racecars outside of class time.
Is parent/ guardian supervision required?
Depending on the materials you allow your student to use for their racecar build, it is recommended that parent/guardian supervision be provided. This is especially advisable should you allow the use of hot glue or sharp cutting utensils.