A multimedia package developed by public television station PBS 45 & 49, consisting of 8 instructional television programs, CD-ROM activities, DVD, Web site, and a teacher's guide. Designed, developed, and classroom tested by teachers in Northeast Ohio.

The lessons are based on the Soap Box Derby, an American institution that intrigues youngsters. Funded through a grant from the Ohio Educational Telecommunications Commission in support of Ohio SchoolNet, Masters of Gravity is an example of how PBS 45 & 49 is helping educate Ohio's youth.

It's been called "The Greatest Amateur Racing Event in the World," "The Gravity Grand Prix" and many other things, but to more than a million youngsters who've participated, it's just the "Soap Box Derby."

Masters of Gravity, a new educational multimedia package for 5th and 6th grades, was produced by PBS 45 & 49. The instructional television series, classroom activities and lesson plans were designed, developed and classroom-tested by teachers in northeast Ohio.

The lessons are based on the All American Soap Box Derby, a tradition that intrigues youngsters. Once we catch their attention, we can increase their interest in learning. This series combines racing and learning in a fun process. Each lesson starts with an introductory classroom activity. Follow this activity with the first part of the instructional television program. About halfway through the video, a screen tells you to stop the tape so students can do suggested classroom activities. Then students watch the second half of the video which answers the questions posed in the first half. Finally, students do a culminating activity in which they produce a product that employs the knowledge they have acquired through the lesson.