Design a Bobsled

Students studykinetic energy, friction, drag and acceleration by relating it to the Winter Olympics.  In this physical properties lesson students create tracks and determine how the course conditions affect bobsled, luge and downhill ski...

Test the limits of gravity while encouraging full class participation with this thrilling lesson. Pupils investigate the meaning of work and how it is equivalent to energy. They explore the joule and apply it as a unit of work. They...

What is mu? Emerging scientists explore the coefficient of sliding friction, or mu, and apply its concepts as they complete activities in the interesting lesson. They measure the sliding friction between soles of their own athletic shoes...

Middle schoolers learn examples of friction and drag, and suggest ways to reduce the impact of these forces. The equation that governs common frictional forces is introduced, and during a hands-on activity, students experimentally...

Learners are involved in hands-on activities to determine how course conditions affect bobsled, luge, and downhill ski races.

Students calculate frictional force after examining the different types of friction and drag. Using a box, basket, and weights, they collect friction data and measure a coefficient of static friction. In teams, they answer questions...

Students study the effect of initial speeds and surface conditions on ski jump distances. They experiment with the parameters and demonstrate their effect on the final distance traveled in the ski jump.