Kindergarten students recently enjoyed learning about the Wright Brothers Monument, actually located in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina. Students watched a brief video about the first flight of a "heavier than air"powered airplane. They learned that Orville and Wilbur Wright had made many glider flights before building a lightweight engine that would help sustain their airplane in the air. They also learned that there were four flights on December 17, 1903, with the first flight lasting 12 seconds for 120 feet, and each flight increasing until the last flight ended with 59 seconds and 852 feet. Students asked many questions so we got the opportunity to discuss what a biplane was, the function of a propeller, a little bit about the design of the wings, and how wind and speed help lift the plane off the ground. The kindergarten students were quite interested, and many of them were already familiar with the Wright Brothers biggest accomplishment.
In Physical Education, we worked with paper airplanes that I had made. This, again, gave them the opportunity to work on the overhand throw and stepping forward in opposition. (Students are improving on this skill due to our many activities that are incorporating this technique.) They practiced throwing for both distance and accuracy. Each student had a different color of paper airplane, so it was easy for us to tell airplanes apart. Occasionally, we switched planes to see if success was due to plane design or pilot technique. I was amazed at how much fun the students had with such a simple activity. All it took was a piece of paper!
These students are taking aim.
Students aim at one of the kiddie pools.
Students put everything they've got in to a successful throw.
Stepping in opposition helps give the throw just a little more power.
