Students conduct Barbie Bungee experiment to explore linear relationships in math

At the Lincoln Board of Education meeting on May 13, 2025, educators highlighted an innovative approach to teaching math through a hands-on experiment known as the "Barbie Bungee." This engaging activity focuses on understanding linear relationships between variables, allowing students to explore how one factor affects another.

During the meeting, a first-year teacher shared insights from her classroom experience, emphasizing the importance of problem-based learning. She noted that students were tasked with predicting the drop distance of a Barbie doll based on the number of rubber bands used. The class initially predicted that 25 rubber bands would suffice, but they learned through experimentation that they needed at least 2 more to achieve their desired results.

The teacher praised her mentor, Alicia Davis, for her exemplary teaching methods, which foster a fun and collaborative learning environment. Students actively engaged in teamwork, demonstrating enthusiasm for the experiment and a willingness to learn from their mistakes. This approach not only made math enjoyable but also reinforced key concepts that students could recall during assessments.

The meeting underscored the district's commitment to story-based learning, showcasing how creative teaching methods can enhance student understanding and retention of mathematical principles. As educators continue to innovate, the Barbie Bungee experiment stands out as a prime example of effective, hands-on learning in action.