Teacher(s) Name: Mr. Fritts
School: Tuckahoe MS
Grade Level(s): Grade 7, Grade 8
Content Area(s): Science, Physical Science
Lesson Summary
The Drachenfire roller coaster at Busch Gardens was a failure by all accounts and was removed from the park in the early 90’s. In this lesson students used their understanding about physics concepts and roller coaster design to create and promote the creation of a new roller coaster to replace Dranchenfire. The roller coaster designed by students had to adhere to physics laws to keep human riders safe and had to fit the Busch Gardens German theme. In addition, students were given specific budgetary limits and were required to create a persuasive proposal in efforts to convince others of the advantage of choosing to build their roller coaster design. After deciding on their final design students worked collaboratively to create a virtual theme park combining their roller coasters, using the No Limits Coaster Simulation software program. Lastly, students created a virtual video of themselves enjoying the rollercoaster for promotional purposes
TIPC Ratings
Research & Information Fluency
Rating:Approaching – Explanation: This lesson is in the approaching category because students researched information on the culture of Germany in efforts to create a new rollercoaster at Busch Gardens. Students created their own questions to gather information and then synthesized that information to create their authentic roller coaster. Students also researched the different elements of the coaster they wanted to include in their design and used a digital tool to showcase their research.
Communication & Collaboration
Rating: Not observed – Explanation: This lesson is in the target/ideal category for communication and collaboration. Students worked in self-selected groups and collaboratively decide which roller coasters would be the best fit in the theme park. In addition, they worked together to create promotional materials that can be accessed across the globe and presented these ideas to a committee beyond their class. Students also reflected on their role as a collaborator and set goals for future assignments.
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Rating: Ideal – Explanation: This lesson is in the ideal/ target category for critical thinking because students had to solve the real world problem of a failed roller coaster and apply their knowledge about science to meet the needs of the park. In addition, they also had to justify why Busch Gardens should purchase their roller coaster for the park and be able to articulate why their roller coaster would solve problems that Drachenfire failed to do. Lastly, students reflected on their efforts and how they could improve in the future.
Creativity & Innovation
Rating: Ideal – Explanation: This is lesson is in the ideal/ target level for creativity and innovation. The students synthesized knowledge to create a unique and inventive final product. Throughout the process students reflected on how they could make their roller coaster safer and more thrilling for the riders and revamped the coaster as needed. The students also created a product that solved the need for a roller coaster to replace Drachenfire and went beyond the classroom walls. In addition, the student promotional websites and presentations illustrated the risk taking thinking skills the students used when designing their roller coaster. Lastly, students reflected on their overall creation and how they could improve in the future.
Student Artifact
Lesson Materials
