Design Brief
Glide Away

Design and build the glider that will travel the farthest, will remain airborne the longest, and will maintain the smoothest flight pattern.

Resources

Time: 10 class periods.
People: groups of two.
Money: none.
Energy: human energy used to "launch" the glider.
Knowledge: Bernoulli's principle, flight forces, existing aircraft designs.
Tools: scissors, hot glue gun, hot-wire Styrofoam cutter.
Materials: paper, masking tape, plastic wrap, craft sticks, balsa wood, Styrofoam trays, Styrofoam blocks, hot glue, Elmer's glue, chip board.
Space: no limitation.

Other Criteria

  • The glider must be safe (e.g., no dangerously sharp points).
  • The glider must display elements of good craftsmanship.
  • Attention must be paid to aesthetics in design and construction.

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