STEM or STEAM Project 2: CAR Construction for Grade 6/7/8 or Year 7/8/9

Inspire innovation, design thinking, and real-world STEM learning through this hands-on car construction project for Grade 6/7/8 students!

This complete resource guides students through the full process of designing, modeling, building, testing, and racing a motorized car, combining Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, and Art in a practical and engaging way.

Students start with hand sketches, move into 3D design using TinkerCAD, then apply coding concepts, simple electronics (motors, batteries, switches), and mathematical analysis (speed, distance, velocity). Finally, they construct their cars using low cost materials and compete in a classroom race event.

What’s Included

• PowerPoint lessons (.pptx) for teachers
• Student assignments and worksheets (.docx, .pdf)
• Marking rubrics and assessment Excel sheets (.xlsx)
• Mathematics integration worksheets (Google Sheets adaptable) Manual calculation and data analyst using math formula
• Practical car-building instructions (plastic, motor, wheels, battery)
• Competition framework for in-class races
• AI and Scratch coding extension (optional for advanced learners)

Curriculum Alignment

• Designed for Middle School / Key Stage 3
• Computer Science: Coding, design thinking, AI introduction
• Mathematics: Speed, distance, time, averages, ratios, cost analysis
• STEAM Integration: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math
• Project Based Learning (PBL) with clear outcomes and creativity focus

Learning Goals

• Design and model a functional car using TinkerCAD
• Build and test a physical car powered by a DC motor
• Calculate performance metrics (speed, distance, velocity)
• Present results with creativity and teamwork
• Reflect on design improvements using data