Challenge
A roller coaster, called the Terminator Express, has been designed for an amusement park. Your challenge is to take the roller coaster design and modify it for a select group of riders. For instance, you may decide that you will modify the roller coaster so that young children can experience the thrill of a roller coaster in a safe and non-threatening way. You may prefer to design the roller coaster for adults that are a bit squeamish about the big hills and sharp turns. They want to experience the thrill of a roller coaster ride, but are ready to pass on the death-defying action. On the other hand, you may choose to design a roller coaster for daredevils that are ready to handle any thrill you can provide. You may also wish to design a roller coaster for people who are physically challenged or visually impaired. However, in each situation, you must ensure that the roller coaster is safe and nobody will be in danger.
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Criteria
You will make the design based on whatever group you choose. Your design will have to meet certain criteria. All designs must have certain components including:
- at least two hills
- one horizontal curve
In addition, you will have to provide evidence that the ride is safe. Safety data will include the height, speed, and acceleration of the roller coaster at five designated locations. Finally, you will have to calculate the work required to get the roller coaster rolling.
You will present your design as both a model and a written poster or report. Make a list of criteria for each of the required elements of the roller coaster. What should a roller coaster design that deserves an "A" look like? Are there other elements that you think should be included in a roller coaster grade? How much should each element be worth? Discuss these questions with your small group and the class. |
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