Geometry and Algebra: The Future Flight Equation

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In this activity, learners discover how NASA engineers develop experimental aircraft. Learners will use geometry and algebra to design, construct, and test an experimental wing to achieve maximum distance using a portable glider catapult. This lesson plan includes background information, key vocabulary and definitions, blackline masters, extensions including an instructional technology activity, and resources.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
30 to 45 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 2 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
$10 - $20 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 11 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Model
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • 20 straight pins
  • 8 small binder clips
  • Calculator
  • Masking tape
  • Student worksheets (pages 13-21 of PDF)
  • 10 meat trays (suggestion: 28 cm X 23 cm - size 12)
  • Meter stick or measuring tape
  • 4 scissors (optional: plastic knife, box cutter)
  • Fine sand paper or emery board
  • 2 thumbtacks
  • Rubber band (size 64)
  • Cardboard (28 cm X 40 cm)
  • 2 wooden rulers or paint sticks

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Astronomy
      • Probes, Satellites and Spacecraft
    • Earth Structure
      • Atmosphere
  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Aerospace Engineering
      • Transportation Engineering
  • Mathematics
    • Algebra
      • Equations and Inequalities
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Analysis
      • Data Collection
      • Data Representation
    • Geometry
      • Plane Geometry
    • Measurement
      • Units of Measurement
      • Size and Scale
    • Number and Operations
  • Physical Sciences
    • Energy
      • Work and Machines
    • Motion and Forces
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Asking Questions
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations
      • Communicating Results
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process
      • Research and Development
      • Invention and Innovation
      • Problem Solving
      • Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Informal Categories

  • Model Building
  • Transportation

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • be mobile
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Uses STEM to solve real-world problems
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • NASA Center for Distance Learning, Office of Education at NASA’s Langley Research Center

Rights: