Park hopper

1. Project Summary

• Grade Levels: 3rd to 8th Grades
• Theme: Engineering, Creativity, Physics, and Data Analysis
• Objective: Students design an amusement park, including a roller coaster model, and create a cohesive experience that appeals to diverse audiences. The project incorporates engineering principles, data collection, and creative design.
• Duration:
• Full Project: 3 weeks, 30-45 minutes per day
• Mini-Project: 5-7 days, 30-45 minutes per day
• Sprint: 2-3 days, 45-60 minutes per day

2. Standards Alignment

NGSS Standards

• MS-ETS1-1: Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relevant scientific principles and potential impacts on people and the natural environment.
• Application: Students design their roller coaster and park layout considering safety, audience preferences, and physics.
• MS-ETS1-2: Evaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
• Application: Teams evaluate roller coaster designs and amusement park layouts for feasibility and appeal.
• MS-ETS1-3: Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions.
• Application: Students test their roller coaster models and refine designs based on performance.
• MS-ETS1-4: Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification to achieve optimal design.
• Application: Students iteratively modify their roller coaster models for performance improvements.

Common Core ELA Standards

• Writing:
• W.6.1–W.8.1: Write arguments to support claims with clear reasoning and relevant evidence.
• W.6.2–W.8.2: Write informative texts to examine a topic and convey ideas clearly.
• Reading:
• RI.6.1–RI.8.10: Analyze informational texts for key details to guide design decisions.
• Speaking & Listening:
• SL.6.1–SL.8.6: Engage in discussions, present findings, and adapt speech for diverse audiences.

Common Core Math Standards

• Statistics and Probability:
• 6.SP.5–8.SP.4: Summarize, represent, and interpret data collected from surveys and tests of roller coaster models.
• Geometry:
• Explore 2D and 3D geometry in designing park layouts and roller coaster models.

3. Thematic Connections

• Science Concepts:
• Physics: Explore forces, motion, and energy as they relate to roller coaster design.
• Engineering Design: Incorporate problem-solving and iterative testing into creating functional models.
• Math Integration:
• Data visualization and interpretation for surveys and testing feedback.
• Measurement and scaling for park layout and ride dimensions.
• Social Studies Integration:
• Discuss the cultural significance of amusement parks and how they reflect community values.
• Analyze the impact of design choices on accessibility and inclusivity.
• ELA Integration:
• Writing and presenting persuasive advertisements for their amusement parks.
• Synthesizing research into cohesive narratives about their designs.

4. Benefits of Project-Based Learning

Grades 3-5

• Hands-On Learning: Encourages active exploration of physics and engineering through model-building.
• Collaboration: Develops teamwork and communication as students work in design teams.
• Creative Problem-Solving: Provides opportunities for students to think outside the box.

Grades 6-8

• Systems Thinking: Encourages students to analyze the interconnected aspects of amusement park design.
• Advanced Analysis: Develops skills in evaluating data and refining designs based on performance and feedback.
• Leadership and Communication: Builds confidence in presenting ideas and working collaboratively.

5. Additional Benefits

• Engagement: The fun, real-world context of designing an amusement park energizes and motivates students.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Combines STEM, literacy, and social studies in a meaningful way.
• Inclusivity and Empathy: Encourages consideration of diverse audiences and accessibility in design.

6. Implementation Examples

• Week 1:
• Introduce the project and brainstorm amusement park themes.
• Research roller coaster physics and design principles.
• Begin creating K-W-L charts and forming design teams.
• Week 2:
• Test materials and build roller coaster models.
• Collect survey data and analyze preferences for park features.
• Create preliminary park maps and layouts.
• Week 3:
• Finalize designs and prepare advertisements for the park.
• Present the amusement park concepts to peers, teachers, or community members.
• Reflect on learning outcomes and celebrate accomplishments.

7. Why This Project is Perfect for Grades 3-8

• Grades 3-5: Introduces foundational engineering and design principles in a playful, accessible way.
• Grades 6-8: Challenges students with complex design tasks, data analysis, and iterative testing while fostering leadership.

The "Park Hopper" project is a dynamic, interdisciplinary experience that promotes creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.