By nature, children like to play and build. By nature, teachers like to teach. Why not combine the two? By building a model car, we can attain our educational objectives, while the students enjoy a pleasurable and enriching lesson.
In this chapter, the students are asked to build a car that will move a long distance, powered only by wind (without them touching it), using the equipment items they are given. This is not just a 'fun' activity. It can and should be a significant tool for teaching and cultivating skills. We will use it to arouse curiosity, initiative, scientific knowledge and students' self-esteem.
The cars which will be built by the teams of students will compete with each other. By analysing the performance of the cars, the students will be able to understand a number of important scientific principles. In order to win the race, it is not enough for the students to be good builders; they must also be smart and knowledgeable ones. They must use strategies rather than just 'trial and error', as young students sometimes tend to do.
To prepare for your lesson, you will find the following resources useful: