Build a Wind-Powered Elevator!
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Provided by: Paleontological Research Institution|Published on: April 27, 2021
Activity - ClassroomScientist Reviewed
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Scientist Reviewed This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This resource from the Paleontological Research Institution provides the directions for how to build a simple wind-powered elevator using basic materials such as a pencil, paper, cup, and string.
- As students build this wind-powered elevator, they are given a hands-on opportunity to learn how wind power works and why it is a valuable source of clean energy.
Subjects: Engineering
Authors: Paleontological Research Institution
Region: Global
Languages: English
Teaching Materials
Positives
- This resource provides a brief introductory paragraph about the history of wind power and why avoiding fossil fuels benefits our planet.
- Many students will be able to complete this project individually or in a small group due to the clear directions and diagrams.
Prerequisites
- This video provides a demonstration of the activity that can be used as an accompaniment to the PDF provided in this resource.
- This project requires materials that can be found in most classrooms but instead of using a plastic straw, try using a half-sheet of paper, rolled up and taped.
- The materials list does not include shoe boxes but teachers may choose to forego this part of the project and use the "elevator" over the side of a desk or table.
Differentiation & Implementation
- Teachers might provide step-by-step directions to students who are strong readers and have them pair up with students of different abilities.
- For younger learners, teachers may choose to create a demonstration elevator for students to use as a reference.
- Ideas for implementing this activity include having students draw a diagram of the project, having a group discussion, assigning students roles for group work, and creating writing prompts that direct students to demonstrate their learning after project completion.
- Other StC resources on this topic include this TED video called "How I Harnessed the Wind" and this solar oven project.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
About the Partner Provider
Paleontological Research Institution
Paleontological Research Institution (PRI) is a national leader in Earth systems science education. They strive to help make sense of the present and potential future climate change, while also increasing understanding of global change in Earth’s past. Their programs focus on systems thinking, understanding scale and learning in your own backyard.
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →
