Several weeks ago, RYNJ 5th grade students completed a special STEAM unit about the physics of rubber band cars. They worked through the engineering design process by questioning and experimenting with how different factors affect the speed and distance of a car. Students tested the best placement for weight, the effect of friction on different tires, and how the amount of elastic energy would affect the distance traveled by their car. The students broke into groups to plan, design and build their own epic rubber band cars. With a goal of traveling the farthest distance using only the stored potential energy to fuel the kinetic energy of the car, they tested the cars and edited their designs to get to the best design possible. The unit culminated in a rubber band car competition! Students had a blast competing and winning awards for distance traveled, speed and design.