In this hands on lab experience students investigate gravity, potential and kinetic energy, friction, and inertia by designing and engineering a mini roller coaster. Through a series of challenges, students iterate solutions that meet increasing criteria.
Each team of students build science skills by brainstorming, problem solving, and communicating with the team and class as a whole. By creating and sharing their roller coasters, each team has a unique, authentic, and memorable physical science experience that complements classroom learning.
Best Suited for Grades: 3-8
Core Concepts: Conservation of Energy, Potential and Kinetic Energy, Gravity, Engineering Design Process, Forces and Motion principles
NGSS Alignment: 3-PS2-2, 3-5-ETS1-2, 4-PS3-3, 3-5-ETS1-2, MS-PS2-2, MS-PS3-5
OMSI 4 All
OMSI is committed to making science-fueled fun available for all in our community. Please inquire about our financial assistance programs for school and community programs.
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Booking + Program Logistics
Looking for more information? Explore quick details about our programs below. Find all the details and learn more about field trips to OMSI!
This program has capacity for 8-16 students per session, up to 2 sessions per day on select weekdays.
Programs must be scheduled with at least two weeks’ advance notice. Spots are limited so reaching out further in advance will increase the likelihood of reserving the lab and date you are interested in.
If you have questions, please contact us at 503.797.4661 or register@omsi.edu.
Reserved Labs do not include museum admission. If you are also wanting to explore OMSI’s exhibit halls during your visit you will need to add on museum admission tickets to your field trip reservation.
OMSI supports educators with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) requirements by providing corresponding programming, opportunities, and resources for them and their students. Reach out to learn more about specific ways that OMSI experiences align with and support science standards.