SMARTT Challenge Middle School Program

The SMARTT Challenge program is proud to offer a curriculum designed expressly for middle school students based on the National Junior Solar Sprint program (JSS), sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy.

This is a hands-on classroom-based program for 6th, 7th and 8th graders that has students applying math, science, solar energy technology, electrical vehicle construction and a big dose of creativity to design and build model solar race cars.

The JSS program provides each student with a standard photovoltaic panel and electric motor to build a car using these components as the sole power train. The design must also carry a 12-ounce soft drink can as cargo; but beyond that requirement, most anything goes. Model cars are judged on technical innovation, creativity and speed.

This year’s regional JSS competitions will be held during the SMARTT Challenge Final Event weekend May 16-17, 2008. JSS competitions will be Saturday, May 17, at the McKimmon Center.

The JSS program is nationwide. According to the Department of Energy, the primary goals of the JSS program are to:

• Generate enthusiasm for science and engineering;
• Improve student understanding of scientific concepts and renewable energy technologies; and
• Encourage young people to consider technical careers at an early age.

For more information about the national JSS program and curriculum resources go to:
http://www.nrel.gov/education/jss_hfc.html