Discover Engineering in Central Texas

This experiment is also shown in the Middle School experiment section with a more detailed procedure and more difficult goals.

Grade Level:  Elementary School, 5^th and 6^th

Related classroom topics:  Civil Engineering, Force

Supplies Needed: 

Divide students into groups of 3-5.  Each group will need: 

·        10-20 file folders

·        Roll of tape

·        Scissors

Procedure: 

1.      Give each group the above supplies

2.      Work as a team to design, build, and test a marble roller coaster that keeps a marble in motion for at least 4 seconds.

3.      Roller coaster must be a in a 3’ x 3’ box space on the wall and can only be attached to the wall. 

Extensions: 

See middle school experiment section for more extensions to the experiment.

Related topics you could discuss:  Engineering design, Construction and analysis, Teamwork, Force, Acceleration, Velocity, and Energy

Hints/Tips:  You can cut, fold, or tear the given materials.

Original Experiment Submitter:  Dr. Ronal Bell, MOVES/Master Builder