In this lesson, students will explore the principles of weight and balance through hands-on problem solving and application to aviation. By analyzing simple lever systems and applying the moment formula, students will develop the ability to calculate necessary forces or distances to achieve balance. The lesson culminates with the interpretation of a real aircraft’s Weight […]
Understanding Weight & Balance Read More »
In this hands-on aviation geography lesson, students will explore aviation sectional charts to learn how pilots plan cross-country flights. They will use the sectional legend to identify symbols, measure distances between airports, and select visual checkpoints (like rivers, roads, or towers). Students will also consider and account for environmental factors such as crosswinds, magnetic variation,
Skybound Strategy – Chart Your Course (Advanced) Read More »
In this hands-on aviation geography lesson, students will explore aviation sectional charts to learn how pilots plan cross-country flights. They will use the sectional legend to identify symbols, measure distances between airports, and select visual checkpoints (like rivers, roads, or towers). Students will then “fly” their planned route virtually using Google Earth’s flight simulator. Learning
Skybound Strategy – Chart Your Course (Basic/Intermediate) Read More »
In this hands-on science lesson, students will engage in a simple engineering design investigation using paper airplanes. They will fold planes from provided templates, test flight performance, make purposeful design changes (wing shape and weight), and observe their effects. Students will measure and record flight distance, chart their findings, and reflect on how changes influenced
Paper Pilots – Engineering for the Skies Read More »
In this integrated STEM and literacy lesson, students will read from The Littlest Airplane and explore how different types of aircraft are designed for specific missions. They will discuss how design affects function and compare various aircraft types (e.g., bush planes, jets, helicopters, cargo planes). Students will then complete the “What’s Your Mission?” worksheet, where
What’s Your Mission? Exploring Aircraft and Their Purpose Read More »
In this engaging, literacy-based lesson, students will read aviation-themed picture books to explore narrative structure and improve reading comprehension. Students will identify key story elements – characters, setting, and plot (beginning, middle, and end) – using a graphic organizer and classroom discussion. This lesson combines imagination, career awareness, and literacy development, sparking interest in aviation
Plotting the Skies – Story Mapping Fun Read More »
When most people think of aviation, they picture airplanes soaring through clear blue skies. But for every flight that takes off and lands safely, there’s an often unseen force working behind the scenes – aviation weather. For pilots, understanding weather isn’t just an extra skill – it’s an essential part of safe, informed decision-making. In
An Introduction to Aviation Weather Read More »
Aviation has always been a field defined by precision and innovation. From the earliest days of flight, pilots have needed reliable ways to find their way in a place where there are no road signs, lanes, or stoplights. Over time, a variety of navigation methods have emerged, each offering unique benefits and helping ensure the
Navigating the Skies: From Landmarks to Satellites Read More »
Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or a curious newcomer peeking into the world of aviation, understanding the traffic pattern is foundational. It’s one of the first concepts pilots learn – and for good reason! This standardized path in the sky provides a safe, predictable structure for aircraft approaching and departing an airport, especially where a
Flying the Pattern Read More »
We’ve already discussed some free ways students can develop and hone their interests in aviation in another post, but we wanted to spend a little more time on how parents, educators, and communities can partner with their local airport to further inspire and enable the next generation of aviators. Introduce Them to a World of Possibilities
Partnering with Your Local Airport Read More »