What if you could challenge your kindergartners to create a mini roller coaster as an entry point to understanding the physics of motion? With this volume in the
STEM Road Map Curriculum Series, you can!
Physics in Motion outlines a journey that will steer your students toward authentic problem solving while grounding them in integrated STEM disciplines. Like the other volumes in the series, this book is designed to meet the growing need to infuse real-world learning into K–12 classrooms.
This interdisciplinary module uses project- and problem-based learning to help young children explore cause and effect. It prompts students to create marble track roller coasters as they make discoveries about energy, gravity, friction, and speed. Students will draw on physical science, mathematics, engineering, and English language arts to do the following:
• Demonstrate awareness of motion- and energy-related concepts through play.
• Use technology to research and communicate information.
• Measure, compare, and test numbers related to their project.
• Discuss, investigate, and create a marble track roller coaster.
• Identify careers associated with roller coaster design and construction
• Describe and apply the engineering design process.
The
STEM Road Map Curriculum Series is anchored in the
Next Generation Science Standards, the
Common Core State Standards, and the Framework for 21st Century Learning. In-depth and flexible,
Physics in Motion can be used as a whole unit or in part to meet the needs of districts, schools, and teachers who are charting a course toward an integrated STEM approach.
Table of Contents
About the Editors and Authors
Acknowledgments
Part 1: The STEM Road Map: Background, Theory, and Practice
1 Overview of the STEM Road Map Curriculum Series
Standards-Based Approach
Themes in the STEM Road Map Curriculum Series
The Need for an Integrated STEM Approach
Framework for STEM Integration in the Classroom
The Need for the STEM Road Map Curriculum Series
References
2 Strategies Used in the STEM Road Map Curriculum Series
Project- and Problem-Based Learning
Engineering Design Process
Learning Cycle
STEM Research Notebook
The Role of Assessment in the STEM Road Map Curriculum Series
Self-Regulated Learning Theory in the STEM Road Map Modules
Safety in STEM
References
Part 2: Physics in Motion: STEM Road Map Module
3 Physics in Motion Module Overview
Module Summary
Established Goals and Objectives
Challenge or Problem for Students to Solve: Roller Coaster Design Challenge
Content Standards Addressed in This STEM Road Map Module
STEM Research Notebook
Module Launch
Prerequisite Skills for the Module
Potential STEM Misconceptions
SRL Process Components
Strategies for Differentiating Instruction Within This Module
Strategies for English Language Learners
Safety Considerations for the Activities in This Module
Desired Outcomes and Monitoring Success
Assessment Plan Overview and Map
Module Timeline
Resources
References
4 Physics in Motion Lesson Plans
Lesson Plan 1: Let’s Explore Motion Through Play!
Lesson Plan 2: Roller Coaster Fun!
Lesson Plan 3: Roller Coaster Design Challenge
5 Transforming Learning With Physics in Motion and the STEM Road Map Curriculum Series
Appendix A: STEM Research Notebook Templates
Appendix B: Observation, STEM Research Notebook, and Participation Rubric
Appendix C: Content Standards Addressed in This Module
Index