Flight Angles Of Inclination

Marie C. Smith                 Anthony Overton Elementary School
                               221 E. 49th St.
                               Chicago IL 60615
                               (312) 535-1430

Objectives:

The students will:
     1.  Observe the flight of a glider.
     2.  Measure the distance flown from a given point.
     3.  Analyze the effect of a change of angle of inclination on the 
         launch/flight of sling launched gliders. 
     4.  Collect data on distance flown when glider is launched from two 
         different angle-ramps. 
     5.  Record and communicate test results to the class by use of a horizontal 
         bar chart for students to generalize conclusions from data.  The effect 
         of angles and comparison of their size/measure will be given by 
         students. 

Materials needed:
     
     Glider
     Trundle wheel
     Yard stick
     Ramp
     Airplane Flight Chart
     Hinged Angle

Strategy:

1.  Explain that airplanes have engines and gliders do not.
2.  Use a chart to demonstrate angles of flight for airplanes.
3.  Demonstrate how to launch glider from ramp, use  trundle wheel and record 
    data. 
4.  Divide the class into four groups.  Distribute a glider, trundle wheel, 
    yardstick, an angled ramp, and data collection sheet to each group. 
5.  Proceed to a launch site (outside, weather permitting).
6.  Launch gliders, measure distance traveled, and record results.
7.  Students will assume the following roles: 
      Pilot-to launch glider from ramp 
      Navigator-uses trundle wheel to measure distance traveled 
      Air Traffic Controller- assist in location of straight line distance of 
        flight and checks trundle wheel reading 
      Flight Attendant- stabilizes ramp and records data. 
8.  Each student assumes each role once and ramps should be exchanged by each 
    pair of groups. 
9.  Return to class, discuss and analyze data using a pictograph.