Students in Mrs. Giammo’s class recently put their creativity, problem-solving skills, and engineering minds to work during an exciting Paper Roller Coaster Project. Working in teams, students designed and constructed their own roller coasters using only paper, tape, and teamwork as they explored concepts connected to force, motion, gravity, and energy transfer.
Throughout the project, students were challenged to think critically as they tested designs, adjusted slopes and turns, and worked through real engineering obstacles to create successful tracks for their marble “coasters.” The classroom was filled with creativity and collaboration as students experimented with different layouts and celebrated each successful run.
The project also emphasized perseverance and communication as teams revised designs, solved problems together, and learned that failure is often an important part of the design process. From towering drops to sharp curves and creative themes, each roller coaster reflected the unique ideas and personalities of the students who built them.
The final day of the project turned the classroom into a full Roller Coaster Carnival as students from other classes stopped in to see the coasters in action and vote on a variety of awards, including Best Coaster, Safest Coaster, Best Theme, and Biggest Thrill. The carnival atmosphere brought extra excitement to the project while giving students an opportunity to showcase all of their hard work and creativity.
The timing of the project also created a fun connection for our 8th grade students, who will soon be experiencing some real roller coasters during their upcoming class trip to Cedar Point in just a few weeks. Great work by Mrs. Giammo and all of our future engineers for bringing science, creativity, and excitement together in such an engaging way.
Go G-Men!