Paper Airplane Design and Engineering

Michael de Spécial introduces an activity aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) focusing on engineering. The activity involves students designing and constructing paper airplanes, emphasizing the engineering design process. The video provides detailed instructions on materials, construction, launching, and making adjustments to improve performance. The goal is to engage students in hands-on learning and problem-solving, fostering equal experience among all students.

What is emphasized in the Next Generation Science Standards regarding engineering?

• Theoretical knowledge

• Artistic expression

• Practical application

• Historical context

What materials are suggested for the paper airplane activity?

• Metal foil

• Scrap or graph paper

• Plastic sheets

• Cardboard and glue

What is the purpose of using graph paper in the paper airplane activity?

• To make it colorful

• To add weight

• To measure wing size and surface area

• To make it more durable

What is the main goal of the engineering design process in this activity?

• To create the fastest airplane

• To improve the performance of the airplane

• To make the largest airplane

• To use the most materials

Why is it important to use an atypical paper airplane design in the classroom?

• To ensure equal experience for all students

• To make it more challenging

• To use more materials

• To save time

What is the first step in folding the paper airplane?

• Folding the wings

• Creating a central crease

• Rolling the paper back from the edge

• Cutting the paper

What is the orientation of the paper when starting the folding process?

• Horizontal

• Portrait

• Diagonal

• Landscape

How can you increase the lift of the paper airplane if it crashes?

• Add more weight

• Unfold the central folded area

• Make the wings smaller

• Throw it harder

What should you do if the paper airplane climbs too steeply and stalls?

• Fold the wings more

• Pull back the leading edge

• Increase the weight

• Throw it with less force

What is a key feature of the paper airplane design discussed?

• It uses multiple sheets of paper

• It is a push glider

• It is a dart glider

• It requires glue