Scientific Method Paper Airplane Experiment | Digital | Editable | No Prep

Before my students delve deep into the Science curriculum, I ensure they have a clear understanding for the Scientific Method. This Paper Airplane Experiment allows children to explore the Scientific Method as they practice collecting and analyzing data from controlled, independent, and dependent variables. So...HOW DOES IT WORK? Students will fly a paper airplane and compare the distance it traveled to the distance that same paper airplane traveled when paper clips are added. PSA: the airplane with more paper clips will travel faster because of aerodynamics. Yes, that's a fancy word way above my pay grade, but this experiment is more about the Scientific Method than it is about the physical science behind the flight patterns. The PowerPoint/Google Slides can be used as a tool to help guide students through the Scientific Method while explaining what each step is. What I did in my class was present the slides and talk about each step where we we then transferred our thinking onto our lab sheet. For example, I presented the hypothesis slide and explained what a hypothesis is. Then, we made a hypothesis and wrote it on the lab sheet (there's even a note on each slide that tells you when students should write on the lab sheet). Not only will students practice the Scientific Method, measuring, data collecting, and graphing but they will LOVE LOVE LOVE flying the airplanes. It's such an engaging activity that get's students on their feet and thinking. Whether you are teaching virtually or in person, this resource has been created to accommodate all instruction delivery!

What's Included?

-PowerPoint Presentation or Google Slides that activates prior knowledge, introduces the experiment, and explains the Scientific Method

-Editable PowerPoint Presentation or Editable Google Slides that allows you to add to or adjust the experiment as needed

-Printable lab Sheet that aligns with the Scientific Method discussed in the slides

-Digital lab Sheet that aligns with the Scientific Method discussed in the slides

I hope your students love this exerpiemt as much as mine did!