Ships Ahoy!
Using simple, colorful, and recycled materials, students design and build a model vessel to achieve the optimal use of wind power. Find a hull and sail configuration that moves across our water track in the fastest time, or carries the largest cargo of treasure. This is a fun, hands-on activity that reinforces the engineering design cycle. Students can apply their knowledge and understanding of wind power, buoyancy, displacement, friction, and lift to their sailboat design.
subject
Engineering and Invention
age range
duration
materials
safety issues
keywords
Water activity, boats, ships, buoyancy, design challenge, vehicle
source
Museum of Science Boston