|
 |
 |
 |
 |
Rules: TSA competitive event CD (complete with racing event rules and specs) can be purchased online at the TSA Web site. Click the "Manage My TSA State & Local" tab on the right side of the page and then click the "Publications" tab. More Tips |
|
 |
|
 |
The Science of Speed is messy, loud, deliberate, engaging, and fun. It's all
about getting a gilded piece of wood down a 65-foot, 7.5-inch track quickly. Very
quickly. The wood is on wheels and is propelled by a compressed CO2 cartridge.
A renewable energy! I have heard students refer to The Science of Speed as the
Pinewood Derby on steroids!
The Science of Speed, which is based on national standards, is intended for middle school students studying
mathematics, technology, and/or science. With little effort the materials can be
made appropriate for younger students, and with slight modifications the
materials can be appropriate for a high school physical science or physics class.
The Science of Speed is not for the faint of heart. Like any good
experiment or investigation, your reflective, marginal notes will be replete with:
"the next time I do this . . ." But there is a correlation between your efforts and
student success. The Science of Speed will require effort on your behalf,
especially the first year.
The gains are exponential: students are engaged, data is relevant, parents
are well aware of what is happening at school. The Science of Speed is event based
and has curb appeal. It's fun. Word in the halls will reach you, and
younger students will ask whether they will design and race when they enroll in
your class. Be sure to invite them to the races!
Principally, this investigation centers on the physical sciences and
includes sufficient structure for the teacher and students to ensure success; yet
the parameters are sufficiently broad that all students are engaged.
The Science of Speed works well in a heterogeneous class of students.
There's no single solution to the challenge, although there are parameters. A
variety of tools and techniques afford all students the opportunity to investigate
and explore. In many ways, The Science of Speed becomes very personal for the
students.
View the entire Overview section of the curriculum, including the
table of contents, a list of materials/resources, and time estimates.
Buy The Science of Speed curriculum now!
 | Browse the topics in the Curriculum menu |  | |
|
|
Printer-friendly Version