Grade Level -5th 

Content Area- Science

Standard: 5.6

ALCOS- Science (Design and conduct a test to modify the speed of an object falling due to gravity. Example: constructing a parachute to slow the speed of a falling object.)

Objective/Overview

Objective:

Students can demonstrate that Earth’s gravity pulls objects toward the center of Earth.

Project Overview: 

In this STEM project, students worked collaboratively to design and build a functional parachute using simple materials such as paper towels, string, tape, and small  paperclip to hold as a weight. Acting as engineers, they investigated how the forces of gravity and air resistance influence the speed and movement of falling objects. Through experimentation, observation, and redesign, students applied scientific principles to create a parachute prototype that demonstrated a clear understanding of force, motion, and engineering design.