In physics class, you can’t learn without breaking a few eggs

by Eva Gucker

Students in Mr. Burger’s physics class found a fun way to be introduced to physics concepts at the start of the class. The physics class was assigned to build a contraption to safely drop an egg from an elevation of five meters without breaking the egg. This project not only taught students about specific laws and principles of physics, but also showed students the application and practices that can be used through this course.

The physics class met together after weeks of preparation to display each of their apparatuses. The North Adams-Jerome class joined with the Pittsford class outside the press box at Pittsford School. After weighing their projects, students individually dropped them off of a five-meter height. Students then moved to the top of the press box to test the survival of the egg. Students were graded according to size, accessibility, and weight of their project, as well as the success of the drop. Overall the students did a good job and used creativity to successfully complete their projects. “I was impressed with everyone’s results,” said Mr. Burger.

The purpose of the project was not only to apply physics, but also to teach students a lesson on incorporating teamwork in physics builds. “The purpose of the project was to apply some physics concepts to real life applications and the idea to develop understanding on how teamwork is always better than individual effort,” said Mr. Burger. Students were given the opportunity to work with a partner and the individuals that took advantage of this found themselves advantageous over the other students, being able to combine ideas. “I learned that it probably would have gone a lot better if we would have worked in a group,” said senior Maggie Chisholm.

Students found this an enjoyable way to learn and show their creativity. It also gave students the opportunity to interact with students from North Adams. “It was fun to see what everyone came up with as their design,” said Maggie. Students had all types of projects using all types of materials ranging from flower pots to toothpicks to balloons.

The project was an overall success for the class and gives a good outlook for future projects. Mr. Burger has plans for new builds for the class, including a miniature solar powered car and an underwater exploring contraption.