STEM Instructional Materials

This unit explores Performance Expectations MS-PS2-1, 2-2, 3-1, 3-5 and ETS1-4 via an engineering challenge to design the most efficient wind turbine. Students are pressed to explain why and how wind surfers are able to catch so much wind!

Unit Overview

Grades: 6-8

Duration: 29 days

Materials:

  • Computer
  • LabQuest (or Vernier data collection interface)
  • Vernier Energy Sensor
  • Vernier Variable Load
  • Safety goggles
  • 2 wire leads with clips
  • KidWind Advanced Wind Turbine
  • Wind Turbine Hub
  • Blade Pitch Protractor
  • Ruler
  • blade materials
  • scissors
  • hot glue
  • Fan
  • Digital camera
  • chart paper
  • colored paper
  • markers