Classroom Happenings: Strong Forces

Students in Upper School Science Teacher Joe Hardcastle’s Honors Physics course explore the motion of objects by conducting experiments and building models around the concepts of force, energy, and momentum. When Mr. Hardcastle learned that second graders have been learning about balanced and unbalanced forces — essential principles in physics — he designed a lesson plan that would enable his ninth graders to create projects that demonstrate balanced and unbalanced forces. The final part of the project? Sharing their interactive demonstrations with the second graders! 

 

On March 27, Mr. Hardcastle’s students set up their demonstrations on the main floor and upstairs lobby of the Paul R. Cramer Center for the Arts. When the second graders, taught by Lyn Lunsford, Kimberlee Magrill, and Kris Marchant, saw the Upper School students’ projects set up, they could barely contain their excitement. 

Kate Bradley '28, Stella Cole '27, and Jack Niemas '28 worked together on a project focused on teaching the effects of air resistance in a simple and easily understood way. 

“We wanted students to observe the time it took to drop different paper objects from high up,” explained Kate. “Working with younger Spartans was so rewarding. I loved seeing the moment when that last piece fell into place, and they understood [the concept of air resistance.] A few students even pointed out things I hadn't noticed before. Working with younger Spartans is fun because their energy is contagious!”

Emily Stefanick ’28 designed a tug-of-war challenge that was a new twist on a classic game. It was a fun way to illustrate the concepts of balanced and unbalanced forces. 

“We had the kids play tug-of-war with their classmates,” explained Emily. “The winning side then got to pick two friends to go on either side of the rope to make their side more balanced.” Emily said the assignment helped solidify her learning because “it required me to think deeply about how to get my audience to understand the physics of tug-of-war.” She added, “Watching the second graders run to our station was fun. I also enjoyed their friendly competition and watching them team up for a common goal.”

Steward’s core values (innovation, inspiration, care & respect, individuality, academic achievement, and civil discourse) were woven into every aspect of Mr. Hardcastle’s assignment.

“This kind of peer-to-peer activity is an excellent way for students to apply what they have learned to help younger students who are just getting introduced to the concepts,” said Mr. Hardcastle. “Ninth graders learned how to take what they know about forces and create age-appropriate interactive activities for younger Spartans. They were excited and proud to be role models – something they found especially delightful in this setting, in which they were ‘teachers’ – and the second graders were all-in, captivated not only by the hands-on activities they engaged in but by the ‘big kids’ who welcomed and guided them. These experiences are part of what makes Steward a strong community of learners.”