Activity

Spool Racer Design and Competition

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

Wind it up and let it go. Individuals build a basic spool racer in the second portion of a six-part unit on energy. After receiving three criteria, pupils modify their designs to meet the new challenge. Pairs compete against each other to determine whose racer is the best.

13 Views 17 Downloads NGSS: Designed
Instructional Ideas
  • Bring in wind-up cars that convert potential energy from a spring to motion as an introduction to the activity
  • Use the activity in conjunction with the introductory lesson on energy
Classroom Considerations
  • Requires wooden spools
Pros
  • Includes the worksheet as a docx, which allows for easy editing
  • Provides a video on how to make the basic design
Cons
  • None