Year 8 & 9 STEM

As part of the weekly mini STEM challenge, during weeks 1 and 2 of Term 4, Year 8 and Year 9 STEM classes explored energy transformation and energy transfer in various contexts. They began by revising the concept of energy and the law of conservation of energy. Next, they worked in small groups to investigate energy conversion through two activities: using a jumping cup and creating a reel racer. The students also had the opportunity to race their reel racers, after which they applied their engineering design process skills and reflected on how to improve their performance by modifying different aspects of the racer’s construction. Students experimented with changing the number of rubber bands, the thickness of the rubber bands, and the number of twists used to power the racer.

It was fantastic to see the students utilize their understanding of physics concepts, their knowledge of the engineering design process, and their collaborative skills in this context. Well done to all students for their great effort!

Saddaf Naqvi

Year 8/9 STEM and Science Teacher