Curriculum
RC Tractor Pull Challenge
Lesson topics:
1. About the Tractor
2. Testing Tractor Configurations
3. Gears and Tires
4. Weight and Friction
5. Tractor Pull Setup
Teaching hours: 5-7
Includes: Lesson plans, student activities, presentation slides, tractor challenge, and assessments
Aligns to: Common Core Technical Standards, C.A.S.E., and Next Generation Science Standards
Alignment and Crosswalk Documents
RC Tractor Pull Challenge Curriculum Overview
RC Tractor Pull Challenge Curriculum Sample
Agriculture Curriculum Overview
Trade Skills Curriculum Overview
FAQs
What classes would benefit from this RC Tractor Pull Challenge?
Agriculture:
- Exploratory and introductory agriculture classes
- Agriculture mechanics
- Agricultural and field management
- Agriculture structures and electronics
STEM:
- General and introductory STEM
- Engineering prep classes
- Design and engineering principles
Trades:
- General and introductory trade skills course
- Simple machines and basic mechanics
- FabLab experience
Science:
- General science
- Physical science
- Physics
- Applied science
With so many variable outcomes, this challenge is great for project-based learning in the classroom.
What comes with RC Tractor Pull Challenge with Pulling Sled?
5 tractors and 5 RC controllers
- With 5 tractor color combinations, students will pick their favorite tractor. Each tractor has its own RC controller
1 pulling sled
- The pulling sled includes a total of 12 lbs. in weights as 1 lb. increments. The hitch on the tractor for the pulling sled is adjustable for students to try various equilibrium and center of gravity positions
4 gears
- To help students experiment with torque and power, 2 pinion gears and 2 spur gears of different sizes are included
60 weights
- The included washer weights can be used on weight posts that are positioned in the front and sides of the tractor as well as on the rear axle
2 sets of rear tires
- With 2 sets of different sized tires, students can test for differences in friction, traction, and turning capabilities
Batteries
- A rechargeable battery pack and charger come with each tractor in addition to 4 AAA batteries per remote
Does the curriculum align to any national standards?
Yes! The included curriculum aligns to Common Core Technical Standards, C.A.S.E., as well as Next Generation Science Standards. This robust curriculum includes 5 lessons on Tractor Pulling and 2 lessons on Science Enrichment (Science, Math and Critical Thinking).
How many kits would you recommend for a class of 20 students?
We recommend two kits for a class of 20 students.
Are any parts customizable?
Yes! CAD drawings are included so you can 3D print tractor covers for students to customize.
Can I buy more pulling sleds?
Yes! Additional pulling sleds are available here and are great for more competition practice!
What makes this product STEM?
- The RC tractors are modifiable, allowing students to replicate real-world adjustments for agricultural tasks or tractor pulls.
- Students experiment with wheel size, gearing, and hitch height to optimize performance.
- Concepts like weight, friction, and gear ratios – concepts that apply throughout the world of trades and engineering – are explored, with hands-on results seen in each tractor pull.
- Lessons integrate science topics such as experimental design, Newton’s Laws, and friction, while engaging students in relevant mathematical calculations regarding mechanical advantage, gear ratios, and force angles
- Guided testing helps students evaluate variables, analyze data, and perfect their tractor designs.
- This learning experience is idea for teams of 2 – 4 students, allowing participants to capitalize on their individual strengths as they collaborate on their team challenge.
- By applying their conceptual understandings and hands-on skills in this engaging challenge, students explore the range of abilities and interests that can foster success in trades and engineering careers.
Download our “STEM 7 Checklist” to learn how this tool aligns to key STEM standards.
Get the Checklist
Do you offer product support?
Yes! Our product support team is available M-F 8am-5pm Central Time via phone, email, or chat. Contact customer support here.
What other program support do you provide?
We offer free webinars, blogs, and classroom resources to help your program succeed.
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RC Tractor Pull Challenge Named STEM Solution Finalist by the 2023 EdTech Cool Tool Awards

Realityworks’ New RC Tractor Pull Challenge Named Tech Edvocate Awards 2022 Finalist
Nathan A., Ag Instructor, FFA Advisor –
I give the kids very little instruction with the tractors besides the basics – you know, so they don’t break them. But then I just tell them you have to make a tractor that can pull the most weight the farthest and they have to figure out the gear ratios, the tire sizes, the hitch placement, all through trial and error. It’s a really good tool for kids to learn by doing and if they make a mistake, figure out ok, why didn’t this work and what can I do to make it work better. And when they can compete, they’re a lot more engaged.