Investigate a Twirling Toy—Flinn STEM Design Challenge™

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Engage students in science and engineering practices with a simple toy! This twirling toy, sometimes referred to as a paper helicopter or whirligig, is easy to make and students of all levels will have fun investigating variables that affect its motion. In the introductory activity, students are presented with three different spinning toy models. During experimentation, they gather data and make observations regarding the spin, flight path, stability and descent time of each model. Students then choose a variable to test with each model and continue to record data and make observations. A design challenge is then presented with specific criteria and constraints. Based on the evidence collected, students optimize the design solution and create their own spinning toy to meet the challenge. A great activity to deepen understanding of scientific inquiry and engineering design processes. Complete for 30 students working in pairs.