Students will begin working in small, collaborative groups to foster ideas, manage conflicts, and accomplish a goal.
SET UP:
10 Life Savers candies for each group
10 straws for each group
10 toothpicks for each group
One pair of scissors for each group
One sheet of paper or cardstock for each group
Masking tape
Electric fan
STEPS:
Organize groups into groups of three or four.
Give each group 10 Lifesavers, 10 toothpicks, 10 straws, one sheet of paper or cardstock a pair of scissors, and a long piece of masking tape.
Ask students to construct a go-cart using only the items that were provided.
Provide the students with an allotted amount of time and periodic updates as time winds down (e.g., “Five minutes remaining!”).
Using an electric fan, have students race the carts two at a time until there is a clear winner.
Close the activity with a debrief, either verbal or written, using a few of the questions from the Stage 2 Debrief Prompts.
EXTENSION:
To increase rigor:
• To increase rigor, measure distance, time, and speed, and then perform calculations aligned with the students’ current level of math.
• To increase scaffolding, recognize go-carts for excellence in other areas, such as most visually appealing, most creative design, etc.