Kenneth O'Konis

O'Konis' "Crash Curriculum" project demonstrates Newtonian Physics through Driver's Education. Among the experiments student conduct are: measuring road friction with a police drag sled, simulating projectile motion in accident reconstructing, and diagramming vehicle and occupant kinematics. Students also document the use of Newton's Laws in actual court cases and review autopsy reports to determine who was driving during an accident. The project not only helps students translate the laws of physics to understandable, real-life situations, but also teaches them about the importance of safety behind the wheel.