Today in Science we investigated the way that spheres (marbles) roll.
First we observed how they roll in a cup, and then we observed them on a runway.
We soon understood that one end of the runway needs to be higher than the other end to get the sphere to roll to the end. It was fun to make different shapes with the Foam runway and build bridges from table to table.
We then had a new idea! We joined runways together and made longer runways- this meant our sphere could travel further and that we could put bumps in our track.
Finally, we joined everyones runway together and made one GIANT roller
coaster that went from the top of the cupboard all the way to the other side of the classroom to the floor. Along the way, there were twists and turns and bumps. we had to hold the rollercoaster still so that our marble could make it all the way to the end- and it did!
coaster that went from the top of the cupboard all the way to the other side of the classroom to the floor. Along the way, there were twists and turns and bumps. we had to hold the rollercoaster still so that our marble could make it all the way to the end- and it did! 
The best part of science is the making of the rollercoaster. I hope that we will have more fun in science.
ReplyDeleteRegards, Ryan
It was fun making the roller coaster. I wish we could do it again because it was so much fun to do a science experiment making a small roller coaster and then a larger class humungous one.
ReplyDeleteRegards, Callie
Wow, what an awesome experiment! I would love to try this with my students. Where did you find the foam pieces? I've been looking everywhere for something like them...
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Mrs. Rice from San Francisco
Hi Lisa,
ReplyDeleteThe Roller Coaster foam is all part of the FOSS kit for Balance and Motion. The kit comes with everything you need and I am lucky enough to work in a school that supplies us with all the resources we need.
Maybe you could order from FOSS –just the foam pieces if that is what you are looking for.
Good luck!
Melissa