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Quick Projects - MK-1

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Title: Crafting an MK-1 Paper Model Plane

Objective: Students will design, build, and test an MK-1 paper model plane while learning about aerodynamics and flight principles.

Materials Needed:

  • Regular printer paper or lightweight colored paper
  • Colored pencils or markers
  • Tape measure
  • Stopwatch
  • Large outdoor space (preferred)

Procedure:

  1. Introduction (10 minutes):
    • Discuss basic airplane parts (wing, flap, aileron, fuselage, cockpit, tail, rudder, elevator).
    • Explain that engineers often create small-size models of new products to test designs.
  2. Design and Construction (20 minutes):
    • Show students an example of the MK-1 paper model plane.
    • Provide instructions for folding the MK-1 design:
      • Fold the paper hot dog style (portrait style).
      • Fold the top-right corner to the center crease, creating a triangle.
      • Repeat with the left corner.
      • Fold the right side along the crease.
    • Encourage students to decorate their planes and give them unique names.
  3. Testing (30 minutes):
    • Students test their MK-1 planes in three trials:
      • Measure flight distance (in feet) and time aloft (in seconds).
      • Record data on an Airplane Comparison Chart (similar to the one provided in the previous lesson).
      • Calculate the average measurements for each plane.
  4. Data Analysis (15 minutes):
    • Graph the collected class data (average distance vs. MK-1 design).
    • Discuss how design influences flight characteristics.
  5. Conclusion (5 minutes):
    • Recap key points about paper airplane engineering.
    • Highlight the creativity and scientific thinking involved in designing the MK-1.

Extensions:

  • Explore modifications to the MK-1 design (e.g., wing shape, tail adjustments).
  • Discuss how control surfaces (ailerons, rudder, elevator) affect airplane maneuverability.

Remember, this lesson encourages hands-on learning and creativity! 🛩️

 
 
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