Introduction to Physics
*This course is intended for lower elementary students
Class Schedule
Thursdays 5:00-5:50 pm PST
January 9, January 16, January 23, January 30, February 6, February 13
Note: Classes are listed in PST, click below to convert time to your time zone.
Course Overview
Dive deep into the physics of roller coasters in this hands-on course! We’ll explore fundamental concepts like kinetic and potential energy, gravity, Newton’s laws of motion, and how these principles work together to create thrilling roller coaster rides. Students will learn how forces, velocity, and acceleration affect the motion of roller coasters, and use these concepts to design and build their own roller coaster models.
Class time will be divided between understanding and experimenting with the physics behind these concepts and applying them through the construction of a roller coaster, putting science into action. Each student will engage in experiments, design challenges, and simulations to fully grasp how physics powers every twist, turn, and loop of a roller coaster.
Student Outcomes:
- Apply physics principles such as gravity, energy transformation, and motion to their roller coaster design and construction.
- Gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between potential and kinetic energy
- Develop problem-solving and engineering skills as they experiment with different designs, testing their roller coasters to see how physics influences speed and stability.
- Engage with physics in a hands-on way, making real-world connections to classroom concepts through experimentation and building.
Student Experience
Inventor
Mathematician
Researcher
Scientist
Your Teacher: Lindsey Roberts
Lindsey Roberts has worked as a teacher in California for over 8 years. She has a Bachelor’s in Zoology from Colorado State University, a background in marine biology, and a Masters of Arts in Education from the University of San Francisco. Her experience spans from working with animals, conducting scientific research, and classroom teaching at a public charter school in grades k-8. She has a passion for science, math, and fostering curiosity. She has taught a wide range of ability levels including gifted students. Lindsey enjoys creating project based learning units connecting multiple subject matters in a way for students to better understand. In addition to working at Cresconova, she currently operates Rooted in STEM Education, (rootedinstemeducation.com) a private tutoring business. Her clients are both international and domestic and many of her current students identify as gifted. They respond to her high level of engagement and deep content knowledge. She is thrilled to share her passions of animals, science, and math with Cresconova students!
