Hoop Glider Design Challenge
This year’s design challenge builds on what students have learned about biomimicry and aerodynamics. Flying squirrels and gliders have a lot in common—they don’t actually fly; they glide through the air when launched. Students will build hoop gliders that follow the same principles of flight as a flying squirrel. In addition to building their gliders, students will make changes and test different designs to see if they can improve distance, hang time, and accuracy. The lesson includes a teacher guide to help you prepare, a hoop glider engineering video, and an accompanying slideshow for your students.
Investigative Phenomenon - Humans study and copy ideas found in nature to solve problems.
Hoop Glider Engineering video (for teachers)
Hoop Glider - Printable Directions
Hoop Glider Journal - Students
**** Please print copies for each group *****
Time Required - 40 to 60 minutes
