What a Scream! Roller Coaster Physics for High Schoolers

Jeanne Munoz
Curriculum Integration Specialist

This WebQuest-centered lesson plan meets Texas standards for high school physics. Based on a teacher-developed WebQuest hosted by Bernie Dodge and San Diego State University, it lists academic and technology standards, provides teacher-led and student-centered activities, lists all resources needed, and provides links to necessary websites. It also includes student assessment strategies.

As members of a fictional company, students simulate creating and evaluating a proposal to SeaWorld for a new roller coaster. Working in teams, students research roller coasters and the physics of potential and kinetic energy, motion, force, and velocity. Students experiment with a variety of construction materials, and view videos and photographs before creating proposals. The entire class evaluates each team's recommendation.

Using word-processors, spreadsheets, and presentation programs, students create budgets, record data, create brochures, present proposals, and write about the physics involved in roller coasters.

Be sure to check out the video clips provided in the lesson for a virtual ride on some of the most exciting roller coasters around!

Roller Coaster Physics Lesson (MS Word)

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