Paper Airplane Making

Innovation Hour

Objective: Campers will learn to design, fold, and test various paper airplane models, fostering creativity, understanding of basic aerodynamics, and problem-solving skills.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Introduction (5 minutes)

• Introduce the activity by discussing the history and fun of paper airplanes.​

• Briefly explain the basic principles of flight: lift, thrust, drag, and gravity.​STEM Teachers

• Emphasize safety guidelines, such as not aiming planes at others and being mindful of the throwing area.​

2. Demonstration (10 minutes)

• Select one or more paper airplane designs to demonstrate.​

• Use the following video tutorials as guides for folding techniques:​

  1. How To Fold A Paper Airplane That Flies Far​YouTube+3YouTube+3YouTube+3

  2. How to Make 3 EASY Paper Airplanes that Fly Far​YouTube+1YouTube+1

  3. How to Make the Perfect Paper Airplane​YouTube

  4. EASY Paper Airplane that Flies REALLY Far​YouTube

  5. How To Make 5 EASY Paper Airplanes that FLY FAR​YouTube

• Demonstrate each fold clearly, ensuring campers can follow along.​TeachEngineering+11The Art of Manliness+11YouTube+11

• Highlight how different designs affect flight performance.​STEM Teachers+2Early Science Matters+2WoW Fold+2

3. Airplane Construction (15 minutes)

• Distribute materials to campers.​

• Encourage campers to choose a design and fold their own paper airplanes.​WorknPlay+7NERDING+7YouTube+7

• Counselors should assist campers as needed, ensuring proper folding techniques.​

• Allow campers to decorate their planes to personalize them.​

4. Testing and Experimentation (15 minutes)

• Set up a designated launch area with a clear throwing line marked by masking tape.​

• Campers take turns flying their airplanes, observing the flight patterns.​

• Use measuring tapes or rulers to measure flight distances.​

• Encourage campers to modify their designs (e.g., adjusting wing folds, adding paper clips) to see how changes affect flight.​

5. Discussion and Sharing (10 minutes)

• Gather campers to discuss their observations:​

  • Which designs flew the farthest or had unique flight patterns?​Early Science Matters

  • What modifications improved or hindered flight performance?​STEM Teachers+1Early Science Matters+1

• Encourage campers to share their experiences and any challenges faced during the activity.​

6. Clean Up (5 minutes)

• Ensure all materials are collected and properly stored.​

• Campers should dispose of any paper scraps and leave the area tidy.​

Assessment:

• Observe camper engagement and enthusiasm during the activity.​

• Evaluate understanding through discussions on flight principles and design modifications.​

• Note campers' ability to follow instructions and collaborate with peers.