six flags ride

More than 430 Middleton High School students participated in what has become a rite of passage for students enrolled in physics: the annual field trip to Six Flags Great America amusement park in Illinois.

rollercoaster“Six Flags is the perfect place to see physics in action,” said Middleton High School physics teacher Angie Humphrey. “You can observe conservation of energy, measure speed and acceleration, hear the Doppler effect, and so much more.”

The physics department has hosted the trip in May for more than 30 years, and Humphrey said the number of students participating grows each year. The trip is open to any student enrolled in physics, which is primarily juniors and seniors.

She said the experience gives students “an appreciation for physics in the real world.”

ride“My favorite part of the trip is the many firsts for our students,” Humphrey said. “We have students who have never left the state of Wisconsin, never rode on a coach bus, and have never ridden a roller coaster. This is a special day for them.”

“We have many generous donors who help make this trip accessible for all students,” Humphrey added. “We are very grateful for their support.”