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National Science Teaching Association: Why Is Metal Used to Build Race Cars?

Students use the shape (structure) of a roll cage to try to determine the roll cage’s function in a NASCAR race car.

Using model roll cages they construct from pipe cleaners, students investigate whether a roll cage made from metal can keep the same shape while rolling along a track. Is metal the right material for the job?

Materials

Roll Cage Investigation Materials

  • Each Roll Cage Model

– 6 pipe cleaners

– Cotton ball

  • Each Testing Ramp

– Cardboard

– Books or Box

– Marker

Materials for Posters or Writing on the Board

  • Poster Paper and Markers OR
  • Whiteboard and Dry Erase Markers

Science Topics
Physics, Sports
Engineering Topics
Machines, Materials, Structures
K-6, Educator
Kindergarten, 1st Grade, 2nd Grade

What are you looking for?

Organization

National Science Teaching Association

Website URL

Type of Resource

Lesson Plan
PDF File

Assigned Categories

Resource k12

National Science Teaching Association: Why Is Metal Used to Build Race Cars?

Students use the shape (structure) of a roll cage to try to determine the roll cage’s function in a NASCAR race car.

Using model roll cages they construct from pipe cleaners, students investigate whether a roll cage made from metal can keep the same shape while rolling along a track. Is metal the right material for the job?

Materials

Roll Cage Investigation Materials

  • Each Roll Cage Model

– 6 pipe cleaners

– Cotton ball

  • Each Testing Ramp

– Cardboard

– Books or Box

– Marker

Materials for Posters or Writing on the Board

  • Poster Paper and Markers OR
  • Whiteboard and Dry Erase Markers
Science Topics
Physics, Sports
Engineering Topics
Machines, Materials, Structures
K-6, Educator
Kindergarten, 1st Grade, 2nd Grade

What are you looking for?

Organization

National Science Teaching Association

Website URL

Type of Resource

Lesson Plan
PDF File

Assigned Categories