Physics of Flight

Defy gravity with this high-flying physics adventure! Students explore the forces of flight—lift, thrust, drag, and gravity—through two exciting challenges. First, they’ll build and test paper airplanes to optimize flight distance and stability. Then, they’ll engineer safe capsules to launch raw eggs using a giant slingshot, applying real-world problem-solving to protect their payloads.

Perfect for outdoor fun or gym space, this kit includes supplies for 24 students working in pairs, reusable launchers, egg protection materials, and both printed and video-guided instructions.

Time Commitment:
Two 45-minute class periods or one 1.5-hour session

Suggested Grades:
Grades 4–7

TEKS Alignment:

• 4.6(B): Demonstrate how force, motion, and energy are related

• 5.6(A): Explore forces such as gravity and friction

• 6.8(B): Demonstrate an understanding of Newton’s three laws of motion using real-world examples