Activity
MENSA Education & Research Foundation

Roller Coaster Mania!

For Teachers 3rd - 10th Standards
Raise the energy level of your physical science class with this exciting hands-on activity. Applying their knowledge of kinetic and potential energy and Newton's laws of motion, young engineers use foam tubing and marbles to create...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Roller Coaster Fun

For Teachers 3rd
Third graders review the effects of gravity on how objects move. In groups, they design a roller coaster and share it with their classmates. Using materials given to them, they build their roller coaster and let a ball roll on the...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Building a Roller Coaster

For Teachers 9th - 12th
Students describe the law of conservation of energy. They identify the conversion between potential and kinetic energy. They investigate and describe the application of Newton's Laws of Motion.
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

May the Force Be With You

For Teachers 6th - 12th
Students read an article, brainstorm ideas and prepare journals investigating why people enjoy 'thrill' rides, what forces affect the body on these rides and how they can become dangerous.
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Physics of Roller Coasters

For Teachers 7th - 9th
Pupils study the physics used to design today's roller coasters.  In this engineering lesson students complete several activities including designing their own roller coaster. 
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Electricity's Attraction

For Teachers 6th - 8th
Students explore the different features of a roller coaster using an interactive website. In this physical science lesson, students explain the role of science to make this thrill ride possible. They develop a creative presentation about...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Potential and Kinetic Energy

For Teachers 6th
Sixth graders explore potential and kinetic energy. In this science lesson, 6th graders assume the role of a roller coaster engineer and design a roller coaster. Students use their knowledge of kinetic and potential energy to design a...