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This lesson helps students understand the physics principles that influence NASCAR racing. Students learn about the importance of tire pressure, traction, friction, and NASCAR engines. They engage in hands-on activities to understand these concepts and use AI tools to explore engine performance. The module aims to make these topics engaging and accessible for middle school students
- Audience: Middle school students (ages 12-15) with an interest in motorsports, STEM, and interactive learning experiences.
- Length: One hour
- Learning objectives for learners
- Understand the importance of tire pressure in NASCAR racing.
- Explore the concepts of traction and friction.
- Learn the basics of NASCAR engines, including horsepower, torque, and fuel efficiency. -Discover how AI is used in NASCAR engine analysis.
Download instruction material
- Classroom toolkit - slides (pdf)
- Classroom toolkit - slides (ppt)
- Teacher facilitation guide - doc
- Friction and traction activity facilitation guide - doc
- Dion 'Rocko' Williams - video
- General Motor motorsports software - video
- Cognitive AI intro with Chris Zachary - video
- Nia Brown AI Copilot video - video
Resources
- NASCAR Official Website
- Azure Machine Learning Documentation: Azure Machine Learning
- Check for understanding: Microsoft Forms
- Check for understanding Gamified version (Kahoot)
Helpful hints
- Ensure all students can access the Azure Machine Learning platform.
- Facilitate discussions by asking probing questions to deepen understanding.
- Provide support during hands-on activities to ensure safety and accuracy.
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 introduces students to the importance of tire pressure and engine performance in NASCAR racing. It includes hands-on activities and simulations to explore concepts such as traction, friction, horsepower, torque, and fuel efficiency. The lesson emphasizes the application of AI in analyzing and improving race strategies.