This project can be done as a concluding activity to the Forces and Motion unit. Prior to beginning, explain to students how a roller coaster uses the concepts of this unit to operate, such as gravity, centripetal force, friction, magnets, etc.

1. Students view sample project.
   
2. Students enter the roller coaster database website: www.rcdb.com.
   
3. Show students how to maneuver the website. If students click on “record holders,” they may search for different coasters based on various records, such as height, speed, length, etc. They may also search by location and type of coaster. Allow students a few minutes to experiment before beginning their research.
   
4. Give students the data collection page. Explain how they will decide what they want to research - for example, one student may research only roller coasters in the USA, others will only gather information on only wooden coasters, while others want to research only roller coasters they have ridden. The sample project uses only coasters in the United States of America.
   
5. Students will use the roller coaster database to gather information on at least 10 different roller coasters. They will record at least the name, type (wooden, steel, etc.), length, height, and maximum speed. They may record additional information if they choose. Students should also look at the various pictures of the roller coasters on the website to get an idea of what these roller coasters look like in real life.
   
6. Once information is gathered, students will use a spreadsheet to record the information. Teacher information can be found with the tech tips located at: http://www.op97.org/pub/tech tips/vol1/aworkshelp.pdf. This shows a teacher how to use the Appleworks tutorial to learn about spreadsheets. Student directions for an Appleworks spreadsheet are included, and may also be used by the teacher.
   
7. After opening the spreadsheet, students must label the columns - Name, Type, Length, Height, Speed, etc. Then students will fill in the information.
   
8. After information is entered, students can change the font, size, style, etc. by highlighting the cells they wish to change and selecting format from the top bar. Students should make their spreadsheet neat and presentable.
   
9. Students can share their spreadsheets when completed. They can also add to them if they wish to search for more coasters.
   
10. Give students the questions regarding the history of roller coasters, as well as the websites where information can be found.
11. Students should look for the answers to the questions on the various websites.
    
12. If time allows, give students the websites for creating their own roller coasters. Allow students time to visit the websites and try to create working roller coasters. Have students share which site they enjoyed more and why.
    
13. When completed, discuss with students the history of roller coasters answers.

 

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