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Students Combine Imagination and Engineering at Terra Nova Expo

three girls demonstrate their amusement park

Fifth-grade GATE students recently presented in the 2025 Terra Nova Expo at Eden Hall.

Students were tasked with designing and building prototypes of sustainable amusement park rides as part of the Terra Nova Theme Park Challenge. Working in teams, they applied the engineering design process to design environmentally focused amusement park rides built from recycled materials and K’Nex components, powered by renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, water or human motion.

Throughout the project, students followed each phase of the engineering design process: researching real-world ride mechanics, brainstorming ideas, sketching detailed plans and constructing their prototypes. They documented their progress in journals, tested and refined their designs and managed a set budget using eco-bucks to select materials. The experience encouraged creativity, collaboration and problem-solving while deepening students’ understanding of sustainable engineering and renewable energy.

Parents were invited to attend the Terra Nova Expo, where each group presented its design, demonstrated the working model and answered questions.

three boys stand behind their amusement park model
Two young boys are engaged in a hands-on activity, using various electronic components and tools to create something. The background suggests a classroom or educational setting, with shelves and other items visible.
The image shows a group of young people standing in what appears to be a classroom or educational setting, with various decorations and items visible in the background.