Students study a variety of scientific concepts through a single common object — the bicycle. Discover how this wheeled device has been modified over
time in response to consumer demand, as well as new technologies. Students
see how bicycle use has evolved from simple recreation to effective mode of
transportation and ultimate fitness machine.
Cycle-ology: A Virtual Exploration of the Bicycle
can be downloaded as independent modules. Worksheets for the modules can be reproduced as necessary for your classroom.
You can also download the entire guide as a single file. (.pdf file (1.78 mb))
Modules
Introduction (.pdf file (95 Kb))
Find out what this Virtual Exploration Guide can do for you! This section also includes references and curriculum links.
Pedalling through History (.pdf file (501 Kb))
Learn how the bicycle evolved from its creation in the 19th Century to the present with activities such as:
Cycling Science (.pdf file (849 Kb))
Discover the various parts and systems of the bicycle and gain a better understanding of the scientific concepts behind this amazing invention. The topics include:
Simple and complex machines
Gears
Wheels
Bicycle frames and materials
Aerodynamics of cycling
Energy found in transportation
Cycles in Society (.pdf file (610 Kb))
Explore the many benefits of the bicycle
and it’s impact on our society. The activities include:
The bicycle as a means of transportation
Bicycles in developing countries
Bicycles in the workplace
Cycling and physical activity
Bicycle safety
Get the complete Cycle-ology Exploration Guide here!
Get all the modules and worksheets in one convenient file. (.pdf file (145 mb))
How to View and Print the Exploration Guide Separate modules of our Exploration Guide are provided as Adobe Acrobat PDF files.
If you do not have Acrobat® Reader, please click on the following icon to download it from the Adobe® Web site.