Upper Elementary Resources

Build a plane that is powered by stored energy from a rubber band, balloon or spring. The plane should be able to fly straight for 5 feet.

Build a lightweight wing structure that is 12 inches long and can hold up a heavy load (weight) without deflecting.

Build a wing that can generate lift from a fan while carrying weight.

Plan and build a network to send communication signals in multiple directions to multiple people.

Build a satellite with a 6-inch square body that can deploy its own solar wings and antennae, and can fit inside a 9-inch diameter tube.

Build an air-powered spinning machine inspired by Boeing CST-100 Starliner.

Build a device that opens up when thrown in the air.

Build a stomp rocket that can carry a ping pong ball and hit a target.

Make a satellite that can hold a cup of water and does not leak during a bumpy rocket launch.

Design a robotic arm that can move a marble, a straw, and a coin from the table into a cup without using your hands.

Build a helicopter that flies at least ten feet in the air and stays up for three seconds while carrying one penny.

Build a machine that makes sound waves by vibrating itself or the air around it.

Build a box that only you know how to open and is safe from hackers.

Make a plane painting machine to draw a design on your airplane.

Build a machine that can make plane fuselage by wrapping a mold just like Boeing’s carbon fiber placement machines.

Make a machine that uses a fluid to move and can lift at least 10 pennies.

Build a system that controls the movement of material and shuts off automatically.

Build a wing that can support its own weight over a span of at least two feet. Inspired by Boeing’s Phantom Eye.

Engineer a sensor that can detect how much fuel is in your tank.

Build an aircraft that can collect air samples.

Water rockets are an excellent tool to learn about rockets, propulsion, and aerodynamics.

Introduce elementary grade students to aerospace engineering.

Most paper airplanes are flat, but these paper hoops can really fly!

Learn about air resistance while making an awesome parachute! Design one that can fall slowly to the ground before putting it to the test, making modifications as you go.

Give students an enjoyable introduction to the world of flight with some fun activities, interesting facts and cool demonstrations.

Investigating the weather and physics of flight.

With an interactive timeline, a news writing activity, and historical context- discover the enduring legacy of an American hero.

Stories of the Wrights' Flight.