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In this activity, students will use the engineering design process to build and test a parachute.
Discover: Learn about parachutes, the forces (lift and gravity) that act on them, and the properties of air and wind.
Define: Understand and develop design criteria, based off of previous research.
Develop: Collaborate to create a plan, sketches, and testable prototype of a parachute.
Deliver: Test and iterate on parachute designs, in order to create a final model.
Key Terms
load: (noun) anything put in or on something for conveyance or transportation
drag: (verb) pull along forcefully or with difficulty
lift: (verb) to raise to a higher position or level
gravity: (noun) invisible force that pulls objects toward each other
Learning Goals
3.2.3.A Make and communicate observations and/or measurements of an object’s motion to provide evidence that a pattern can be used to predict future motion.
3.2.3.B Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence of the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on the motion of an object.
3.5.3-5.M Demonstrate essential skills of the engineering design process.
3.5.3-5.O Describe requirements of designing or making a product or system.
3.5.3-5.R Apply tools, techniques, and materials in a safe manner as part of the design process.
3.5.3-5.U Evaluate designs based on criteria, constraints, and standards.
3.5.3-5.V Interpret how good design improves the human condition.
Does your school use Next Generation Science Standards? Use the following codes instead of the Pennsylvania Integrated STEELS Standards listed above. 3-5-PS2-1, 3-5-PS2-2, 3-5-ETS1-1, 3-5-ETS1-2, 3-5-ETS1-3
Project Examples
Have a solution to this challenge you want to share? Take a photo or video of your prototype, post it on social media, and don’t forget to tag us @fluxspace_io
