Balloon Car Races
Author: Levi Van Zee
Balloon Car Races Levi Van Zee The 6th grade Science Adventures class recently had the opportunity to build and test balloon-powered cars. In this class, Mr. Van Zee teaches 6th-grade students concepts pertaining to science, technology, engineering, art and math. In this particular project, balloon cars were created using recycled water bottles, straws, skewers, and balloons.
Students designed their cars with the goal of achieving maximum distance by the means of propulsion from the balloon. In order to accomplish this goal, students learned a great deal about reducing friction and how to best use potential energy from the balloon.
A basic design was given, but students were given the freedom to use the materials however they felt would give them the best advantage in the competition. Once the cars were completed, a competition was held to determine which design would prove to be the most successful. A head-to-head bracket was made and students were able to put their creations on display. The balloon car that traveled the farther distance would move on in the bracket.
After many rounds of the double-elimination tournament, Gavin Begger came out as the champion. Tana Santi came in a close 2nd, followed by Brayden Becker as he put up a strong battle to place 3rd in the competition.
Overall it was a fantastic display of creativity and engineering.
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PhotoCredit: Levi Van Zee
Image 1 Caption: Brayden Becker, Gavin Beggar, Tana Santi
