Grade Level: Upper Elementary

Objectives:
1. The students will hear a lesson on physics.
2. They will observe and list the features of the model K’nex car.
3. The students will build their own car using K’nex.
4. The students will test their cars to visualize speed, distance and accuracy.

Materials:
A set of K’nex
A model car
A testing track marked with distances
A stop watch

Procedure:
1. The teacher will give a brief lesson on the concept of physics and how it relates to real life.
2. The students will investigate the features of the model car and list what they think are both good        and bad aspects of the model.  They will predict how they think the car will travel.
3. The teacher will demonstrate the testing of the model K’nex car.  A discussion of how physics played a role in the test will follow the test.
4. In small groups, the students will create their own K’nex cars using ideas from the model to create what they think will make the best car.
5. The students will test their car for speed, distance, and accuracy.
6. Based on the initial test, the students will make revisions to their cars and test them again.

Evaluation:
The students will be graded on creativity, as well as craftsmanship.  The cars that travel fastest, farthest, and straightest will receive the highest grades.