Winners were not available at the time of publication, because the judges were having a hard time determining which coasters were the best. “They’re so many that are exceptional,” said Chris Glaser, third grade teacher and judge.
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Mupu School 5th through 8th grade students, as part of a science project, designed and built model rollercoasters. Above is just one of the elaborate coasters. Photo by Brian D. Wilson |
Rollercoasters give Mupu students a thrill
June 12, 2002
Imagination was ingenious, creative, and magical
Santa Paula News
There was a miniature theme park on display at Mupu School on Wednesday, June 5. As part of a science project on potential and kinetic energy, the 5th through 8th grade students were to design and build model roller coasters. No one imagined that the results would be so ingenious, creative, and magical.
Students used everything from hair dryers, marbles, water, pipes, homemade tracks, water pumps, and lollipops to demonstrate their energy project. Many of the roller coasters were functional, in that the students actually got their marbles and cars to complete the roller coaster ride.Younger students were mesmerized as they watched marbles do loop-the-loops on the roller coasters and listened to the upper grade students explain the workings of their roller coasters. “The little kids weren’t that interested in hearing about the difference between potential and kinetic energy, but they sure loved the “magic” of it all,” said Jeanine Gore, Principal.“What was impressive was the amount of design and building time that many of the students invested after school hours and how they collaborated to make their project work,” said Mike Stacy, their science teacher. Were any parents involved in the project? “Well, it looks like some of the dads may have enjoyed this learning experience,” replied Mrs. Gore.
