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of an object. An object has force and when it runs out of force
it stops moving.
The motion of an object is always in the direction of the net force applied to the
object.
Large objects exert a greater force than small objects.
A force is needed to keep an object moving with a constant speed.
Friction always hinders motion. Thus, you always want to eliminate friction.

Project Materials

The best materials for this project, so that all students are on a relatively equal playing field, are K'NEX. These K'NEX materials are easy for middle school students to manipulate and are inexpensive. Additionally, K'NEX materials make it easy for students to design their own cars and redesign as necessary. The use of these K'NEX materials allows all car designing and building to take place in the classroom and is easily reused in more than one class. To facilitate distribution of materials store them in small cardboard boxes or plastic containers. Purchase fans at Wal-Mart or similar store in the camping section for less than $2.00 each and the fans use AA batteries. Fans are easily attached to cars using a heavy duty rubber band. Sometimes parents and parent organizations will donate K'NEX materials and fans.

Project Details

This project is designed for individuals or pairs. This is primarily based on resources and class size. The project can be spread over several class periods, if the project includes any recommended extension activities. Each part of the project details has teacher hints.

1. To grab student attention, so they can begin to decide how to design their own fan car and investigation, place a pre-built fan car on the floor and let them observe it running.

Hints: Tell students that they may not use the design, to avoid students copying the teachers design. Some students will think that the teacher's fan car is the only correct or workable design. The teacher may need to stimulate discussion with guiding questions, but do not put words in the student's mouths. This is a fine line and can become teacher directed quickly, if the teacher is not careful.

2. Ask students what they observed and record their answers on the chalk board or newsprint. Save to compare student findings at the end of project with their initial observations.

Hint: This is a time that many student misconceptions, along with additional science concepts appear (force, friction, etc). Record them and do not discuss.

3. Give students time to formulate and record questions they want to answer about motion.

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