“Left, Right, Paper Planes” - A Fun Engineering Activity for Young Learners
Learning Standards and Science Foundation
In this engaging activity, young learners will develop foundational skills in engineering and problem-solving using the engineering design process. Let’s explore the world of paper airplanes and discover how math can be both fun and educational!
SC4.1: Demonstrate Engineering Design Skills
- Infant Level: Explore and manipulate human-made objects.
- Younger Toddler Level: Begin to construct and deconstruct using readily available materials.
- Older Toddler Level: Observe and evaluate whether a solution was successful.
- Younger Preschool Level: Use classroom objects that function as simple machines to enhance play.
- Older Preschool Level: Select materials and implement a designated plan.
Materials Needed
- Book: “Airplanes Take Off and Land” by Byron Barton
- Paper Airplane Template
- Sheets of Paper
Optional: You can also use the NASA paper airplane template available here.
Activity Steps
Part 1: Read-Aloud
Begin by reading “My First Counting Book” by Cindy Entin. This will set the stage for our paper airplane adventure.
Part 2: Discussion
Ask the students if they have ever flown a paper airplane. Let them know that they are about to have fun flying paper airplanes while learning about math concepts.
Part 3: Flying Paper Airplanes
- Prepare the Paper Airplanes:
- Provide each student with a paper airplane template or guide them in folding their own paper airplanes.
- Encourage creativity in decorating their airplanes!
- Flying and Counting Steps:
- Allow each student to fly their paper airplane.
- After flying, have them carefully walk to where the airplane landed, counting their steps.
- Record the number of steps for each flight.
- Switching Hands:
- Instruct students to have a second turn, but this time using their other hand to throw the airplane.
- Again, have them count their steps to where the airplane landed.
- Comparing Distances:
- Ask the students which hand threw the airplane farther.
- Discuss the results and any patterns they notice.
- If needed, record the distances for each flight.
Note: You can use a hula hoop as a targeted landing zone to control where the airplanes are flown.
Part 4: Summary
Today, we explored the world of flying paper airplanes! By comparing distances and using math (counting steps), we learned which arm threw the airplane farther. Next time, challenge yourself: How far will your paper airplane go on your next flight?
Remember, engineering is all about creativity, experimentation, and having fun while learning! 🚀✈️
Feel free to adapt this activity to suit your classroom or learning environment. Enjoy the adventure of paper airplanes and inspire the engineers of tomorrow! 😊🌟
