Examining the transportation systems and technologies of the present day can help us improve them for the future.
Today you will explore the structure and function of a helicopter and then use the Engineering Design Process to design a more efficient prototype.
Helicopters work based on changes in air pressure that result in a force called lift. As the blades or rotors spin they create lift, which allows the helicopter to rise into the air. In addition to rotors on the top, helicopters also have a rotor in the back. The rear rotor can face different directions, allowing the helicopter to move forward, backward, and sideways.
Step 1: Make your paper helicopter using this template.
Step 2: Now it’s time to test! With parental permission, stand on a chair and drop your paper helicopter. Pay attention to how it spins. You can also try tossing it into the air from a standing position.
Step 3:
Now you will change one variable - weight. A variable is one element in an experiment that is changed. Add weight to your helicopter by attaching more paper clips. What happens to the speed when you add more weight? How much weight does it need before it no longer spins?
Step 4:
Try changing another variable. You can change the shape or length of the rotors. Or you could fold it a different way. You can use the extra templates to compare your designs.
Step 5:
Ask a family member to share a picture or video of your paper helicopter on social media using #MakerMondaySTEMx!
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