Exploring forces in an easy-to-recognise context - the world of rollercoasters!

Workshop Description

Rollercoaster riders are subject to a whole range of forces as they climb to dizzying heights, plunge at bone-rattling speeds and loop the loop at death-defying angles. CSI: Rollercoaster takes advantage of this by immersing your pupils in a world where someone has sabotaged the world’s most thrilling ride: The Newton.

After being introduced to the crime the suspects and, through a problem solving game, some rollercoaster forces, pupils will take part in a challenging activity asking them to use their existing scientific understanding and transfer it to new areas. This process will release a number of clues, each eliminating one suspect - until only the saboteur remains!

Exploring: gravity, friction and other push/pull forces (KS1); gravity, friction, upthrust, centrifugalism, centripetalism, magnestism (KS2).

Duration: 45 - 60 minutes (KS1); 1½ hours – half a day (KS2) depending on the number of classes.

Science
EYFS - Y6 / P1-P7 / Senior Infants - 6th Class
45 - 60 minutes (KS1); 1½ hours – half a day (KS2)
30 pupils per workshop
School Hall

FAQs

How many pupils can take part?

CSI: Rollercoaster can accommodate up-to 30 pupils per workshop.

What is the format of the day?

We will work with you to plan a timetable for the workshops, to suit the number of classes you would like to include - and around the specific timings of your school day.

Are there any technical requirements?

Each working space needs to be equipped with laptop/screen/projector, so pupils can view the supporting PowerPoint throughout.

 

Where will the workshops take place?

These workshops require the use of your school hall. 

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