Fifth Grade Research
Roller Coaster Physics
A: Ask Questions!
Do you have your questions ready? What are the keywords in your questions? You may need to revise your questions as you do your research.
G: Gather Information
Use the following sources to find answers to your questions.
Roller Coasters
Build Your Own Coaster
Try building your own roller coaster.
Exhibits Collection: Amusement Park Physics
"What are the forces behind the fun?"
Funderstanding Roller Coaster
Be sure to check the physics terms for definitions.
How Stuff Works: How Roller Coasters Work
Good explanations of the physics behind roller coasters.
Fear of Physics: How to Make a Roller Coaster Work
Another web site that allows you to try out different kinds of roller coasters. Good explanations of kinetic and potential energy.
O: Organize Your Information
Take notes on your graphic organizer.
P: Prepare Your Information
Your teacher will tell you how you will be preparing your information. You might be writing a paragraph to inform.
P: Present Your Information
Your teacher will tell you how you will be presenting your information.
E: Evaluate
Take time to think about the research process. Are there steps you would do differently the next time you research? What changes would you make?