Made a doll parachute

Science

• The child learned about the concept of gravity and how it affects objects in motion.
• They gained an understanding of air resistance and how it can slow down the fall of objects.
• They explored the relationship between surface area and air resistance, noticing that larger parachutes created more air resistance.
• They developed problem-solving skills by adjusting the design and materials of the parachute to achieve better results.

To further develop their understanding of the concepts explored in the activity, the child can try experimenting with different materials for the parachute, such as plastic bags or lightweight fabrics. They can also explore the effects of changing the shape or size of the parachute on its performance. Encourage them to document their observations and findings in a science journal or create a presentation to share with others.

Book Recommendations

• The Magic School Bus: Ups and Downs by Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen: Join Ms. Frizzle and her students on a wild adventure where they learn about the forces of gravity and air resistance.
• Parachutes: An Introduction to Gravity and Air Resistance by Patricia Armentrout: This book explores the science behind parachutes, explaining concepts like gravity and air resistance in a fun and engaging way.
• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer: Although not directly related to parachutes, this inspiring true story follows a young boy who uses his knowledge of science to build a windmill and bring electricity to his village in Malawi.