Roller Coaster STEM Challenge: Harness the Power of Forces!
by Nidia Hurtado Diaz
In this hands-on STEM challenge, 4th graders become engineers by designing, testing, and optimizing miniature roller coasters! Students will:
Investigate forces (gravity, friction) and energy transfer (potential → kinetic)
Apply the engineering design process to solve real-world problems like loops and drops
Discover cause-and-effect relationships (e.g., higher hills = faster speeds)
Lesson Grade Level
4th GradeLesson Plan Link/URL
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ntUf_fKNRp_MPrYAZe2DirzdpmFAT2Yf/edit?u…Subject Area
Science Physical Science P4: Energy Transfer Technology 1. Empowered Learner 4. Innovative Designer Engineering S2: Apply the Engineering Design Process
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