Sailing AwayA STEM Project

Wind Energy

• Wind energy is an important source of electricity and an example of a renewable resource.

• Today you will research information about wind energy. You will use this research to build your next STEM project!

Your ChallengeBuild a sail to catch the

wind! Your group will go through the Engineering Design Process to build a sail from the bag of materials you are given. We will test your sail using a fan and tight wires as shown in the picture below.

By the end of this project, you will be able to say…

S I can define renewable resources.

T I can use a website to research information.

E I can use the Engineering Design Process to design a sail.

M I can identify the factors that influence speed.

The Engineering Design Process

AskImagine

PlanCreate

Improve

Materials

It’s a secret this time! Your teacher will give you a bag of materials but you won’t get to open them until the timer for planning starts! You can use any or all of the things in the bag.

Project ScheduleWeek 1:•Research wind energy using the Kids and Energy Website (under STEM links on Mrs. Reagan’s website.)

Week 2:•Ask, imagine, plan your design•Start building•Test as you go

Week 3:•Continue to improve and test your sail•Time sails/ discuss speed•Share ideas and reflect