C6: Drone Technology

Aim:

To understand how flight forces work by building and testing a simple paper glider.

Requirements:

  • Chart paper or light cardboard

  • Scissors

  • Tape

  • Straw (drinking straw)

  • Ruler

  • Pencil

  • Rubber band (optional, for launch)

Safety Note:

Use scissors carefully and fly your glider only in open areas (classroom corridor or playground).

Steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Paper Loops

  • Cut two strips of chart paper:

    • One large strip: 2 cm × 15 cm

    • One small strip: 2 cm × 10 cm

  • Roll each strip into a loop (ring) and tape the ends together.

Step 2: Attach Loops to the Straw

  • Tape the large loop to one end of the straw (back).

  • Tape the small loop to the other end (front).

  • Make sure both loops are straight and balanced.

Step 3: Test the Glider

  • Hold the straw in the middle and throw gently forward.

  • Watch how far and how smoothly it flies.

Step 4: Observe & Experiment

Try changing:

  • The size of the loops (bigger/smaller)

  • The length of the straw

  • The throwing angle

Note what happens:

  • Does it glide longer?

  • Does it fall quickly?

  • Does it wobble or stay straight?

Observation Table

Experiment

Change Made

Result (How It Flew)

Force You Observed

Normal glider

Original loops

Smooth and steady

Lift & Thrust balance

Small front loop

Smaller front ring

Longer flight

Less drag

Large back loop

Bigger back ring

Stable flight

Better balance

Explanation

  • The large loop creates lift by pushing more air.

  • The small loop reduces drag, helping it move forward smoothly.

The balance of loop sizes helps your glider stay stable — just like a drone balancing its propellers!

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