Source Institutions
Source Institutions
Add to list Go to activity
Activity link broken? See if it's at the internet archive
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square250/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-003-864.jpg?itok=MQ53qY4L)
In this activity, learners explore how wind energy can be generated on both a large and small scale. Learners design and build a working windmill out of everyday products and learn about anemometers and site testing. Learners' windmills must be able to sustain the wind generated by a fan or hairdryer at medium speed. Learners test the ability of their windmills to rotate and lift a small object upward. Learners evaluate the effectiveness of their windmill and those of other teams, and present their findings to the group.
- Under 5 minutes
- 1 to 2 hours
- $10 - $20 per group of students
- Ages 8 - 18
- Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- Student Resource Sheets
- Student Worksheets
- Hairdryer or fan
- Small object for each team to life (suggestions: toy car, yogurt cup filled with a few coins, tea bag, battery, pencil)
- Wooden stick
- Wooden spoons
- Small wooden (balsa) pieces
- Bendable wire
- String
- Paperclips
- Rubber bands
- Toothpicks
- Aluminum foil
- Tape
- Dowels
- Glue
- Paper
- Cardboard
- Plastic wrap
- Other materials as needed
Subjects
-
Engineering and Technology
-
Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Technology
-
Engineering
-
Physical Sciences
- Electricity and Magnetism
-
Energy
- Work and Machines
-
Motion and Forces
- Machines
- Momentum and Velocity
- Rotation Motion
-
The Nature of Technology
-
Technology and Society
- Impacts of Technology
- Technology and the Environment
-
The Design Process
- Research and Development
- Invention and Innovation
- Problem Solving
- Troubleshooting and Maintenance
-
Technology and Society
Informal Categories
- Financial Literacy
- Nature and Environment
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- read
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves teamwork and communication skills
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
Components that are part of this resource:
Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
Rights:
- All rights reserved, IEEE,