This course was created by the Rethink Education Content Development Team. This course is aligned to the NC Standards for 5th Grade Science. 

This course was created by the Rethink Education Content Development Team. This course is aligned to the NC Standards for 5th Grade Science.

Students will design a fun and safe roller coaster with at least one loop. Students start by simulating a coaster with Amusement Park Physics. Here they learn about giving their coaster the maximum energy needed to complete the course. Their coaster design is rated for safety and fun. After simulating a coaster and understanding how to design a safe and fun coaster, students use the design process to create a prototype coaster for an amusement park.

Students will learn and understand the design process by designing and engineering the ultimate playground. What is the design process? Read Someone Builds the Dream by Lisa Wheeler and Loren Long and Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet. Discussion about dreams, goals, and reality.
Discussion about the design process and how to use it to design your dream
playground.
Discussion about what was created in each book. Write on poster paper. Make connections between dreams and reality.
Could we dream up a better playground (or school)? How do we make it a reality?