This packet includes multiple lessons that can be adapted for various learning styles and objectives. Students will engage with hands-on activities demonstrating Newton’s laws of motion and more. Working in pairs or groups, they will design and build a rubber band-powered vehicle, both within a budget and without constraints. Students will record and graph their data, then reflect and discuss their findings with peers after completing the physical activities. This lesson offers an excellent opportunity for students to explore the concepts of potential and kinetic energy through experimentation. All necessary consumable materials are included in the PDF—simply download and print what you need.
Possible Time Needed to Complete:
Each lesson in the packet may take approximately 45–70 minutes to complete. Lessons can be used individually or in conjunction with one another. The total time required is flexible and can be adjusted based on the instructor’s discretion.
Grade Levels:
6-10
NGSS Standards for High School:
- MS-PS2-2: Plan and carry out an investigation to provide evidence that the change in an object’s motion depends on the sum of the forces on the object and the mass of the object.
- MS-PS3-1: Construct and interpret graphical displays of data to describe the relationships of kinetic energy to the mass of an object and to the speed of an object.
- MS-ETS1-4: Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process such that an optimal design can be achieved.
NGSS Standards for Middle School:
- HS-PS2-1: Analyze data to support the claim that Newton’s Second Law of Motion describes the mathematical relationship among net force, mass, and acceleration of objects.
- HS-PS3-3: Design, build, and refine a device that works within given constraints to convert one form of energy into another form of energy.
- HS-ETS1-3: Evaluate a solution to a complex real-world problem based on prioritized criteria and tradeoffs that account for a range of constraints, including cost, safety, reliability, and aesthetics.
Critical Technology Connections:
- Semiconductors and Microelectronics: Unmanned cars and boats in the real world rely on microchips to control movement, store energy data, and communicate. While your design is powered by rubber bands, it represents the mechanical side of systems that, in DoD vehicles, would be integrated with electronic sensors and controls.
- Advanced Manufacturing: By selecting materials, building prototypes, and improving your design, you’re practicing key skills in advanced manufacturing — the same field that creates real DoD vehicles using robotics, 3D printing, and automated assembly. Your hands-on work reflects how real engineers turn ideas into working technology.