Brianne Timony

September 16, 2013

Ninth Grade Physical Science Lesson on Flight


Objective:
Students will be able to understand that an increased speed of airflow over a surface
results in a decrease in air pressure over that surface.
Students will be able to understand that air moves faster over a cambered , or arched,
surface than over a flat surface.
Standards:
Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-
generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize
multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.
CC.3.6.9-10.H: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and
research.
Anticipatory set:
Watch a short video on the Wright Brothers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LdE5kBWIOto
The brothers were the first to fly an aircraft. How do airplanes fly? What is it that keeps
the plans in the air? These questions will be answered by a few simple experiments.
Teaching:
1. The students will perform a series of simple experiments with a partner that will
demonstrate the principles that make it possible for an airplane to lift into the air and remain aloft.
2. Divide the class into groups, providing each group with the materials listed:
Two sheets of paper
Two empty soda cans
Transparent drinking straw
Scissors
Cup of Water
3. The class will then perform these experiments by completing these steps. (Predict the
outcome before beginning).
Experiment 1: Hold two sheets of paper so they are hanging vertically with the
surfaces facing each other close together in front of your mouth. Blow Between the papers,
observe the results. (They should observe the paper move closer together)
Experiment 2: Lay two empty soda cans on their sides, parallel to each other and
close together on a table. Holding a straw between the cans, blow through the straw. What
happens to the cans? (move closer together)
Experiment 3:Cut the transparent drinking straw into thirds and hold one segment
upright in a cup of water, with the top of the segment about the surface of the water. Blow across
the top of the straw and observe what happens to the water. (The water level rises).
4. Come together as a class and begin a discussion on their experiments. Encourage
reasons for their results.
5. Explain how increased speed of airflow over a surface causes a decrease in air pressure over