Robert W. Carbonaro School Students Explore Engineering By Building Model Cars

Students at Robert W. Carbonaro School in the Valley Stream 24 School District are gaining real-world engineering experience through the school’s Into Science program, led by fifth-grade teacher James Fischman.

As part of the unit, students learned about the history of automobiles and how cars have been modified over time to improve performance. Using materials from their science kits, including cardboard, paper cups, straws of various sizes, and balloons, students designed and built their own model cars.

During the first phase of the project, students tested their initial designs by racing their cars against one another. The cars were powered by air-filled balloons, and students evaluated which designs were the sturdiest and most effective at moving forward. Based on their observations and trial results, students then created blueprints and plans to modify their original prototypes.

On the second day, students tested their redesigned cars in a new series of races to determine which vehicle traveled the farthest. While making improvements, students were required to keep three elements constant: the original cardboard car body, a straw used to inflate the balloon, and the balloon that powered the car. This challenge reinforced the scientific method and highlighted the importance of controlled variables in engineering and experimentation.

The third and final phase of the project extended learning beyond the classroom, as students brought their cars home to make one final modification before returning for a culminating race.

Through this engaging, hands-on experience, students developed critical thinking, problem-solving, and engineering skills while gaining a deeper understanding of design, testing, and innovation.
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