Middle School Grade  Project 9 weeks

"Force-Fueled Fun: Play in Motion!"

Lizzy S
MS-PS2-1
MS-PS2-1
MS-PS3-2
Content Expertise
Collaboration
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

This project aims to transform the way middle schoolers engage with play by designing innovative, movement-based games that address the unique challenges faced by Bronx youth. By integrating principles of physics, students will create engaging prototypes that promote physical activity, social interaction, and mental well-being. The project encourages students to leverage their creativity and scientific understanding to develop solutions that are fun, feasible, and responsive to local needs, ultimately fostering a sense of community and connection through play.

Learning goals

Students will apply physics concepts, such as force, motion, and energy, to design and prototype innovative movement-based games that address specific barriers faced by Bronx middle schoolers. They will collaborate with peers to co-design projects, engage in critical reflection, and develop a sense of belonging and identity through hands-on, real-world learning experiences. By conducting experiments and analyzing data, students will enhance their scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills, while also strengthening their ability to communicate ideas effectively through persuasive pitches to community partners.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-PS2-1 - Apply Newton's Third Law to design a solution to a problem involving the motion of two colliding objects.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-PS2-1 - Apply Newton's Third Law to design a solution to a problem involving the motion of two colliding objects.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-PS3-2 - Develop a model to describe that when the arrangement of objects interacting at a distance changes, different amounts of potential energy are stored in the system.
Competencies
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.

Products

Students will design and construct innovative movement-based games or play systems that address Bronx-specific barriers, such as a modular indoor climbing structure or a human-powered pinball machine. They will develop prototypes supported by data from force and motion investigations, showcasing their understanding of physics principles. Additionally, students will create persuasive pitches to present their designs to community partners, advocating for real-world implementation and potential funding.

Launch

Kick off the project with an interactive workshop where students participate in a series of dynamic, movement-based games designed by local play experts from Movement Creative. These activities will highlight the principles of force and motion, sparking curiosity and excitement about the project's potential. Following the games, students will engage in a brainstorming session to identify the barriers to active play in their own lives, setting the stage for their design challenge.

Exhibition

Students will showcase their movement-based games and prototypes at a community event hosted in collaboration with Movement Creative and local public health advocates. This exhibition will include live demonstrations, where students can engage attendees in playing their games, highlighting the physical and social benefits. Additionally, students will present their persuasive pitches, using data and scientific principles to advocate for the impact and feasibility of their designs. This event will serve as a platform for students to receive professional feedback and potentially secure support for further development and distribution of their projects.