PBS 45 & 49 to launch Soap Box Derby project

PBS 45 & 49 are in the process of developing a tool for teachers that helps teach math and science to 5th, 6th and 7th graders. Called Gravity Masters: Soap Box Derby Math and Science, the project revolves around the Akron-based All-American Soap Box Derby.

Every year, throughout the United States and several foreign countries, youngsters build and race soap box cars in regional races. The winners converge on Derby Downs in Akron every summer to race for the All-American crown.

This new PBS 45 & 49 project is funded through a grant administered by the Ohio Educational Telecommunications Commission in support of the Ohio SchoolNet Initiative. Gravity Masters will provide the framework for teachers to facilitate the application of concepts needed to prepare for Ohio's proficiency tests.

The 15-month planning, production and testing phase of Gravity Masters: Soap Box Derby Math and Science is coming to fruition with materials being readied for distribution to teachers in the 2003 school year. Project materials eight broadcast programs, a CD-ROM, a teachers guide, a DVD and a web site will be available to all 5th-, 6th- and 7th-grade teachers in the 94 middle schools served by PBS 45 & 49.