Building a hoop glider is a fun and simple way to explore aerodynamics! In this activity, you’ll construct a basic glider using readily available materials like paper, straws, and tape. As you design and refine your glider, you’ll investigate how factors like wing shape, weight distribution, and launch technique affect its flight.

Materials Needed

  • 1 index card
  • 1 plastic drinking straw
  • Tape
  • Scissors
  • Ruler (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cut the Index Card

   – Use scissors to cut the index card into three strips, each 1 inch wide and 5 inches long.

  1. Create the Hoops

   – Take two strips and tape them together to form one large hoop (overlap the ends slightly). 

   – Use the third strip to make a smaller hoop and tape the ends together.

  1. Attach the Hoops to the Straw

   – Tape the large hoop to one end of the straw. 

   – Tape the small hoop to the other end of the straw. 

   – Make sure the straw is lined up inside the hoops.

  1. Test Your Hoop Glider!

   – Hold the straw in the middle with the hoops on top. 

   – Throw it forward like a dart, slightly angled upward. 

How It Works

– The large hoop creates drag, keeping the glider stable. 

– The small hoop helps control direction. 

– The straw acts as the body, allowing smooth airflow.

Extension: Change the variables to see how changing each effects the flying distance.   For       example, shorten your straw or change the size of your hoops. 

Commentary:  This activity Is an exploration of Newton’s Third Law of Motion:  For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.  Thrust is the force exerted by your arm when throwing the glider.  Drag is the air resistance or the reaction of force against thrust.  (More resistance makes it harder to throw and shortens the distance the glider can travel).  Lift is the force that keeps the glider in the air.  Gravity is the reaction force,  pulling the glider down towards the center of the earth. 

 Standards Alignment: NGSS K-5-ETS1-1:  Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.