PNA’s Arcade

Every year, the third graders take on the challenge of creating an arcade out of cardboard.

This experience focuses on three third grade science standards:

	3.PS2.1 Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence of the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on the motion of an object. 3.PS2.3 Ask questions to determine cause and effect relationships of electric or magnetic interactions between two objects not in contact with each other. 3.PS2.4 Define a simple design problem that can be solved by applying scientific ideas about magnets.

The idea originated from a boy who created a cardboard arcade in his dad’s auto shop.

Our Question: How can we, as engineers, prove that you can use magnetism or push/pull force to create arcade games?

Entry Event: Chuck E. Cheese

Our research on arcade games takes place in the real world!

Students create a meaningful learning experience by asking themselves questions related to their mission. For example: How can we create a game like this with magnets? What forces are in action in this game?

The Process: Building in the Classroom

Over the course of four weeks, students create their arcade games using materials donated to our school. When tackling this part of the PBL, students must persevere through difficulties with their projects and problem-solve to accomplish their goals. Frustration is a natural part of the process when creating something you have never attempted before, however, the students handle these situations with grace as they channel their growth mindset.

 

The Public Product: “Day of Play”

1st, 2nd, 4th, and 5th graders are invited to attend our “Day of Play” where they earn tickets and win prizes, just like a real arcade. This experience builds excitement for the 1st and 2nd graders who will get to build their own arcade as third graders and serves as a fun reflection for the 4th and 5th graders who have completed the project themselves.