Helicopter Engineering Challenge

Helicopter Engineering Challenge

Design, Test, Improve

Your Mission

Your team will design a paper helicopter that stays in the air as long as possible.

Engineers test designs, study what happens, and make improvements based on evidence. Today, you will do the same.

Part 1: Watch and Notice

Your teacher will show you how a paper helicopter works.

As you watch, think about:

• what makes the helicopter spin
• what helps it stay in the air longer
• what changes might improve the design

Part 2: Build Your First Helicopter

Work with your team to build a starting helicopter design.

Part 3: Test and Improve

Your team will test your helicopter, observe what happens, and improve your design.

Your Goal

Use testing and redesign to make a helicopter that stays in the air as long as possible.

Science Connection

As your helicopter falls, air pushes against the blades.

The shape, size, and weight of the helicopter affect how fast it drops and how it spins.

Engineers test different designs to understand how drag, balance, and shape affect motion.