Eighth Graders Elevate Learning with Egg Drops and Parachute Sprints in Thrilling Physics Labs!

Peck's eighth-grade science class is buzzing with excitement as students dive headfirst into the fascinating world of physics under the guidance of Upper School Science Teacher Tim Loveday. With hands-on labs and innovative projects, learning takes flight as students put on parachutes and eggs defy gravity!

In one recent lab, students put their engineering skills to the test in an “egg-citing” project: the Egg Drop Challenge! Tasked with constructing contraptions to protect eggs dropped from a towering height of 30 feet, students worked under challenging parameters, including a one-cubic-foot size limit and no use of packing materials or parachutes. Armed with hot glue guns, cardboard, straws, and rubber bands, students transformed simple materials into sophisticated egg-saving devices, crafting a diverse array of designs ranging from intricate cushioning systems to ingenious shock-absorbing mechanisms.

But the excitement didn't stop there! Students also experimented with friction as they took turns putting on parachutes and racing against the clock in a thrilling 40-yard dash. With every stride, they experienced firsthand how friction impacts motion, comparing their times with and without the added resistance of the parachute.

“Through these hands-on experiences, students not only gained a deeper understanding of the principles of projectile motion, gravity, and friction but also honed essential problem-solving and troubleshooting skills. They were able to see firsthand how these principles affect real-life scenarios,” says Loveday.

These hands-on experiences aren’t just about fun and games; they are about fostering a deeper understanding of the laws that govern our universe. Through exploration, experimentation, and a healthy dose of excitement, Peck's eighth graders are embracing the wonders of physics and paving the way for a future filled with scientific discovery.