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This lesson aims to help students understand the physics principles that influence NASCAR racing. Through interactive simulations and AI tools, students explore concepts like aerodynamics, forces, and energy. The session includes practical activities using Microsoft Azure Machine Learning to create and run simulations.
- Audience: Middle school students (ages 12-15) with an interest in motorsports, STEM, and interactive learning experiences.
- Length: One hour
- Learning objectives for learners
- Grasp the basic principles of aerodynamics and how they affect a race car's performance.
- Understand the forces acting on a race car, including friction, downforce, drag, and side force.
- Apply Newton’s Laws of Motion to real-world motorsport scenarios.
- Differentiate between kinetic and potential energy in the context of a moving race car.
- Engage in hands-on activities to visualize and comprehend acceleration, deceleration, and centripetal force.
Download instruction material
- Classroom toolkit - slides (.pdf)
- Classroom toolkit - slides (.pptx)
- Teacher facilitation guide - doc
- Physics of racing - video
- Physics of racing PhET simulation - web page; directions and discussion questions
- Physics of racing: AI activity - doc
- Physics of racing: AI Activity data - workbook
Helpful hints
- Encourage students to ask questions and share their thoughts.
- Use visual aids and real-world examples to illustrate complex concepts.
- Provide more resources for students to explore on their own.
Resources/activities
- PhET Simulation: Forces and Motion Basics
- Azure Machine Learning Documentation: Azure Machine Learning
- Khan Academy: Newton's Laws of Motion
- NASA: Newton's Laws of Motion
- YouTube: How aerodynamics help make a car go faster
- Check for understanding - Microsoft Forms
- Check for understanding – Gamified version (Kahoot)
Tips for first-year teachers
- Preparation: Familiarize yourself with the content ahead of time. Review the slides and resources thoroughly.
- Engagement: Keep the students engaged with interactive activities and discussions. Use visuals and real-life examples to make the content relatable.
- Support: Offer extra help to students who may struggle with the material. Provide more resources and one-on-one support as needed.
- Feedback: Encourage students to give feedback on the lesson. Use their input to improve future lessons.
Conclusion
This lesson gives students a deeper understanding of the physics behind NASCAR racing. By exploring concepts like aerodynamics, forces, Newton’s Laws of Motion, and energy, students gain insight into the scientific principles that make NASCAR so exciting. Use this guide to navigate through the lesson, ensuring that your students are engaged, informed, and inspired.