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The Challenge:

We teach young people what the scientific method is. Often it goes like this: 1) Start with a question, 2) Form a hypothesis, 3) Conduct an experiment, make observations and collect data for results, 4) Formulate a conclusion with the original hypothesis in mind. It seems simple, cut and dry, learn it now do it. Sometimes students do not even get the opportunity to experience the scientific process; for most students it is only a pen and paper exercise, they often do not get the experience of DOING science. The education system does not emphasize the passion, curiosity or enthusiasm that comes with scientific quests. The KBLOGS I have written, including this one, offer examples to make the scientific process come alive for students.

A Solution:

Combining a hands-on experience with a light-hearted competition is a great recipe to introduce the scientific method to students. I have students make and test paper airplanes. Each student can make as many paper airplanes as they wish, and each paper airplane is made from one piece of white 8.5x11 inch paper. I want the students to learn from their mistakes and to realize the advantages of making mistakes and learning from failed airplanes. The students are not pre-warned about the airplane building contest. I do not want them to do any research beforehand. Students are to write down a description of each airplane they fly and test, the reason for the design and how it flew. At the end of the designated time, we go to the gym or outside to fly the airplanes. I like to have each student fly their best design to see which airplane among the students travels the furthest. I find fun and silly prizes from the dollar store to present to the winners. After the flying exercise we discuss the thought process that they went through to design their paper airplane. The discussion eventually leads students to the realization that they naturally conduct a formalized scientific process when solving problems. I want my students to know that their way of thinking as it relates to problem solving and design will naturally follow the scientific method.

Resources:

GREAT VIDEO (TIPS for all levels) – Throw a Paper Airplane 100 Feet with NASA - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77S_Fs6lGvQ

Make and Color a Paper Airplane (K-8) -

https://www.nasa.gov/stem-ed-resources/make-and-color-a-paper-airplane.html