Paper glider

The aim of this investigation is to build a simple paper dart glider using the following instructions.

Fold a sheet of A4 paper in half lengthwise.

Open it out and fold the corners at one end into the centre fold.

Fold each of the folded edges into the centre line again.

Turn the glider over and fold each side into the centre line again.

Open out the wings. If it has been folded correctly, the wings should be slightly curved on the top and flat on the bottom. This is the ideal aerofoil shape.

Experiment with the glider, making several models to test different design modifications. Fly each test glider against the

no-frills model so you can test the outcome of each modification.

Make sure each glider is launched in the same way and by the same person. Test the distance travelled and the smoothness of the flight.

Try taping the wings to make them flatter on one model.

Add paperclips to alter the position of the centre of gravity. The possibilities are endless.

This glider can also be used to determine the relationship between the lift and angle of attack. Design an accurate way of determining this relationship.