Activity library/SHC 05

Make + imagine

Paper Airplane Lab

Fold, test, change one thing, and test again - a simple experiment disguised as a flying contest.

Free full plan
30-45 minindoorslow energyAges 3-10
Free field plan · 05SHC

Grab

  • Used printer paper
  • tape
  • crayons
  • a measuring tape or footsteps
  • an open indoor space

Do this

  1. Fold one basic plane per person. Decorate lightly so added weight does not change the first test.
  2. Mark a launch line and make three flights each. Measure distance with a tape or equal-sized footsteps.
  3. Change one variable: wing width, a paper clip on the nose, or small wing flaps.
  4. Fly three more times and compare. Celebrate the straightest, loopiest, and most surprising flights too.

Keep it easy

Use one shared plane and let children predict where it will land.

Take it further

Make a simple chart of each design and its longest flight.

Memory prompt

Which change helped your plane most?

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