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Knowledge/Skill Building

⚡ Forces & Energy Ride Moves

Content Expertise Critical Thinking & Problem Solving PS.2.A PS.2.B HS-PS3-5 Essential Question Submission Required

Through a mini design lab, the teacher models how conservation of energy (mgh ↔ 1/2mv^2) and forces (gravity, normal, friction, magnetic) show up in real rides. Students analyze 3 ride case studies and sketch quick force diagrams and energy transformations, then identify at least two physics phenomena they could leverage creatively in their own designs.

Plan day
Day 9
Duration
110 min
Grouping
Whole Class
Steps
6 steps

Lesson plan

6 steps · 110 min
# What teachers do
1 Introduction to Forces & Energy Ride Moves. Discuss the essential question and how physics concepts integrate with narrative elements. (10 min)
2 Mini design lab demonstration by the teacher on conservation of energy and forces in theme park rides. (20 min)
3 Analyze three ride case studies in small groups. Sketch quick force diagrams and identify energy transformations. (30 min)
4 Group discussion on identified physics phenomena and brainstorm creative ways to leverage them in ride designs. (20 min)
5 Reflect on how narrative themes from chosen books can be incorporated into ride designs. (20 min)
6 Wrap-up and share initial ideas for ride designs with the class. (10 min)
Preparation (3 items)
  • Gather materials for the mini design lab demonstration, including visual aids and manipulatives like cardboard, rubber bands, and marbles.
  • Prepare case study materials for analysis, including images and descriptions of real theme park rides.
  • Set up spaces for small group discussions and ensure necessary tools for sketching force diagrams are available.
Student-facing instructions
Your task is to explore how physics concepts like energy conservation and forces can be creatively integrated into theme park ride designs that also reflect narrative themes from your chosen book. You will analyze case studies, sketch force diagrams, and identify energy transformations. Collaborate with your peers to brainstorm innovative ride ideas and consider how themes like friendship and loneliness can be woven into your designs.