Using Mouse Trap Cars to Study Basic Physics in Middle School

The PUSHES and PULLS of Mouse Trap Cars

    Physical Science is a combined science where my 6^th grade students study Chemistry topics in the 1^st half of the school year and Physics in the 2^nd half.  Physics is a branch of science my 6^th graders will continue to learn about through the 4^th quarter.  Early in the 3^rd quarter, my 6^th graders started to learn about pushes and pull, which are better known as forces.  To end the chapter on basic physical forces, the students were challenged to research and build a car powered by a mousetrap. After researching, the student groups settle on a design and came up with a supplies list.  

(Using Mouse Trap Cars to Study Physic in Middle School) -  - Slideshow Link

     Each group was required to create a description sheet to inform others how their particular car was to be constructed.  Through study and investigation, the students were able to determine some of the opposing forces their car would have to overcome.  The main forces each of the groups would have to work against were gravity and friction.  The goal for each group was to have their car go 15 feet or 5 meters.  Each cooperative group launched and timed the distance of their creation which allowed them to calculate the speed.  Since math, technology, and engineering materials are so intertwined with science this practical application really became quite a STEM experience for my students.  I encourage everyone to take a look at the pictures on the slideshow, in the middle of the article, to see some of the things that took place during this discovery of how middle school student can have a lot fun and learn at the same time.    

Mr. Pytleski

Middle School Science Teacher