The Paper Car

RICHARDTON HIGH SCHOOL TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT RICHARDTON, NORTH DAKOTA

THE PAPER CAR

OBJECTIVE:

To learn that the scientific method is not a linear process.

To learn the difference between potential and kinetic energy. To learn to use different forces of prime movers.

To learn the principles of forces like compression, torsion, strain, and shear.

Learn the principles of friction, in particular rolling friction.

To work independently or cooperatively. To learn to brainstorm (lens smashing) and develop problem solving skills. Make decisions using trial and error. Work within a given amount of time. Work with only materials given. Deal with competition with your peers.

PROBLEM:

Using a standard sheet of 8.5 x 14 legal sized sheet of paper.

10 cm of clear tape (approx. 4 inches).

Pitsco HD glue.

1 Yellow drinking straw.

Set of four (4) plastic wheels with axels (Schwan pushup parts)

Construct a paper car that will travel the greatest distance.

LIMITATIONS:

Time limits for construction is 30 minutes or instructor’s discretion.

No power tools will be used.

Exacto knife, scissors, paper cutter maybe used.

The paper car must be free standing and must roll on its own.

EVALUATION:

Students will test their own paper cars.

The instructor will be the official length recorder.

Cars will start at a height of approximately 1 foot elevation with an inclined plane approximately 36 inches.

Cars will not be pushed of the starting line.

20 points = Paper car that traveled the longest distance.

19 points = 90% of the longest distance.

18 points = 85% of the longest distance.

17 points = 80% of the longest distance.

16 points = 70% of the longest distance.

Name _____________________________________________________

Distance the paper car traveled. __________________.