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.


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activity video:

Ships Ahoy!


subject

Engineering and Invention

age range

duration

materials

safety issues

keywords

Water activity, boats, ships, buoyancy, design challenge, vehicle

source

Museum of Science Boston