Ep 19. Backyard Thrill Ride

Design Squad is a show that explores the world of engineering and design in a fun and accessible way. In Season 1 Episode 19, titled "Backyard Thrill Ride," the focus is on creating a backyard ride that is both exciting and safe.

The episode begins with a team of two kids, Annabelle and Andrew, who have a love for amusement park rides. They want to create their own ride in their backyard, but they need the help of the Design Squad to make it a reality.

The squad consists of two engineers, Judy and Adam, who work with the kids to brainstorm ideas for the ride. They come up with a plan for a roller coaster that includes twists, turns, and drops. The ride will be powered by a ball that rolls down a track and pushes the coaster car forward.

The first step in the design process is to create a sketch of the ride. Annabelle and Andrew work with the engineers to draw out their ideas and make sure everyone is on the same page. They also take measurements of the backyard to make sure the ride will fit in the space.

Next, the team gets to work building a model of the roller coaster. They use materials such as wood and PVC pipe to create a small-scale version of the ride. This allows them to test out the design and make any necessary adjustments before building the full-size ride.

One challenge the team faces is figuring out how to make the roller coaster safe. They need to ensure that the coaster car stays on the track and that riders don't get hurt during the ride. The engineers come up with a system of locking wheels and safety bars to keep everything in place.

Another challenge is figuring out how to power the roller coaster. They decide to use a steel ball that rolls down a track and pushes the coaster car forward. This creates a thrilling ride while also keeping it safe and simple.

With the design finalized, it's time to build the full-size roller coaster. The team works together to construct the support beams, track, and car for the ride. They encounter a few obstacles along the way, such as a crooked track and a car that won't stay on the rails, but they work through each issue and make the necessary adjustments.

Once the roller coaster is complete, it's time for the moment of truth: the first test run. Annabelle and Andrew take turns riding the roller coaster, and everyone holds their breath as they watch to see if it works. The ride is a success, and the team celebrates their hard work paying off.

Overall, "Backyard Thrill Ride" is a fun and engaging episode that showcases the process of engineering and design in a way that is accessible to kids. The challenges the team faces are relatable and the final product is exciting and impressive. It's a great example of how STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education can be both educational and fun.