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Pop Fly

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    WGBH
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Pop Fly

In this design challenge activity, learners invent a way to send a Ping-Pong ball flying high enough to catch it - like football with a twist! Learners use paint stirrers, a wooden spool, tape, and their feet to launch the ball. This fun hands-on activity introduces learners to the design process while exploring levers.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
30 to 45 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per student
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Type:
Activity
Language:
English, Spanish

Materials List (per student)

  • Duct tape
  • 3–5 paint stirrers
  • 1 Ping-Pong ball
  • 1 wooden block or spool
  • 3 oz. paper cups (for your redesign)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
  • Physical Sciences
    • Energy
      • Potential and Kinetic Energy
      • Energy and Power
      • Work and Machines
    • Motion and Forces
      • Machines
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process
      • Invention and Innovation
      • Problem Solving
      • Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Informal Categories

  • Sports and Exercise

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • be mobile
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Source Collection:

  • Design Squad Nation

Rights:

  • All Rights Reserved, WGBH Educational Foundation, ©2010

Funding Source:

  • National Science Foundation, 0810996

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