What children will learn
- Run a fair test by changing one variable
- Measure and record distances
- Find an average
You'll need
- A4 paper
- A tape measure or long-step counting
- Paper and pencil for results
How to do it
- Fold three different designs: a classic dart, a wide-winged glider and your own invention.
- Mark a throwing line. Throw each plane three times the same way and measure each distance.
- Record results in a table and work out the average for each plane.
- Change one thing on the best plane (add a paper clip to the nose, fold up wing tips) and test again.
- Decide on a winner and explain what made it fly well: weight, wing size or balance.
Make it easier
Just compare two planes and count steps instead of measuring.
Make it harder
Graph the results and test whether launch angle changes distance.
Parent tip: Fair testing (same thrower, same throw, one change at a time) is a key science idea from primary school.
Fantastic work! Every little step helps you grow.