Nature of Science Paper Helicopters 

Scientific Investigations use a Variety of Methods In the paper helicopter design challenge, students measure many variables in their process of designing the slowest helicopter. They may choose to explore paper type, mass of the helicopter, wing length or width, weight at the base of the helicopter, or another variable - They will accurately measure the changes in these variables. They will also measure the amount of time it takes for the helicopter to hit the ground. Students will use evidence from the data of previous trial to modify their helicopter design in order to create the slowest falling design. Scientific Knowledge is Based on Empirical Evidence 

Science Models, Laws, Mechanisms, and Theories Explain Natural Phenomena Students will relate their understanding of Newton’s Second Law of Motion and of what factors affect air resistance to help in developing their helicopter designs. This project helps student understand that science is a way of knowing used by many people, not just scientists. Through the CCM, students will see how the knowledge of gravity and air resistance are used in the real world, and they will personally be using these laws and theories to design their own models. Science is a Way of Knowing 

Scientific Knowledge Assumes an Order and Consistency in Natural Systems Students will use their understanding of how other objects are affected by mass and air resistance to create their design. If any outliers in data that arise, students will analyze what may have caused the anomaly. Students will explore this principle through the design process and realizing that their ability to design is limited by the materials they have access to. This idea can be extended into the fact that human scientific knowledge is limited by technology and materials available to scientists around the world. Science Addresses Questions About the Natural and Material World