Roller Coasters!

In science class, we are learning more about forces and energy and the different forms by building roller coasters out of recyclable materials.
We have to make it so that there is a highest point of kinetic energy and a highest point of potential energy. Kinetic energy is the energy of motion. Potential energy is the energy an object can have. We also have to think about how Newton's three laws of motion directly connect to this activity. As you know, Newton's 1st law states that if something is at rest, it would stay at rest unless a force is put on it. Newton's Second Law states that every action has a opposite reaction, and Newton's Third Law states that mass and energy are related.
All the materials cost Omega Dollars, and I must say, some of it was pretty expensive. This probably gives us a feel of how it feels to earn money and how to spend it wisely. Our group tried to save on money, so that we could use it for any dire situations. We also tried to make ours look attractive so that people would want to ride it.
This project is a lot of fun, but it is a bit challenging. You have to have good problem solving skills, patience, and creativity. The hardest part of this project would probably be making sure that the marble would have enough force to go over some of the hills and different parts of the roller coasters. Also, to make sure that the marble would stay on track and not bounce of the sides of the coaster.
All in all, this project is a great way to test the abilities of students in a fun way.This project not only looks at science, but different talents, like building, creativity, and teamwork.

For fun with roller coasters, you can go to this site: http://kids.discovery.com/games/rollercoasters/buildacoaster.html>
For more information on Newton's Laws, go to this site: http://www.allworldknowledge.com/newton/"> *be careful, it's British-English!