Theme park science

Year Level: 8 Theme / Unit: Theme Park Science Duration: Term 2 (10weeks)

Theme / Unit Overview:
Students will learn about different types of forces in relation to theme parks. They will learn how they are measured, and the interrelationship between force and energy. They will also study how forces and energy can be effectively used in simple machines.
Learning Outcomes
Core Content
Working Scientifically
Core Syllabus Outcomes

SS.1
SS.2
SS.3

EC.1
EC.2

NPM.2

Core content and depth of coverage will vary between groups
This unit is based around Chapters 5, 6, & 10 Science. World 1
Amusement Park Rides
Types
Safety
Pushes and Pulls
Forces around you
Friction
The pull of gravity
Energy
What is energy?
Forms of energy
Energy comes – energy goes
How things work
Simple machines
Pulleys and gears
Electrical things
Lab Report Writing (Genre of the Report)
Handling materials safely
Hypothesising
Looking for patterns and meaning
Seeking reasons
Performing experiments – using a microscope
Engaging with problems
Predicting
Observing
Participating
Applying ideas and contexts
Drawing conclusions
Generalising
Making links
Creating diagrams, tables and graphs
Using scientific terminology
Describing
Discussing
Inferring

Assessment

Assignment:: Making a Rollercoaster (due week 6)

Exam (week 7)

Experiment write-up: Levers (week 8)

TOPIC

LEARNING OUTCOMES
No OF LESSONS

CONTENT

LEARNING EXPERIENCES

TEXT / RESOURCES
WEEK 1
Amusement Parks

1

1

1
INTRODUCTION TO UNIT
Outline term work and assessments (form groups)
Brainstorm – What makes for a good ride at the fair or an amusement park?
Brainstorm – What do we need to study in order to design an amusement park ride?
Types Of Amusement Park Rides
Parts of a ride – hills, loops etc.

ENERGY
Energy – brainstorming.
What is energy?
Measuring energy (Joules)