Abstract
This step-by-step video guide is a helpful introduction showing teachers and parents how to build a working rubber band helicopter. They will learn about simple mechanisms, such as the rubber band linkage, and how to wind up the rubber band to create stored energy. This energy will be used to power the helicopter's blades, which will allow it to fly.
This fun STEM challenge is aimed at primary school children.
Download the free activity sheets and supporting resources on our resource page for more detailed instructions, teachers notes and for optional extension work. These are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs.
This exercise will take approximately 40-65 minutes to complete in full.
Tools/resources required
• Printed activity sheets
• Paperclips (30mm)
• 1 bead per pupil (6 to 8 mm)
• Sticky tape
• Pliers (longnose type are best)
• Rubber bands
• Yoghurt pot tops or other thin plastic
• Small card tubes
• Erasers or sticky tack
• Skewers
Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.
About IET Education
We support STEM teachers by providing a range of resources linked to the UK curriculum and partnering with organisations to create experiences that inspire teachers and students alike. Our campaigns are for children aged 4 to 19 years and aim to bring their imaginations alive to inspire them to engineer a better world in the future.
Engage children and keep them busy and learning at home or school with our free STEM resources and activities for KS1, KS2, KS3 and KS4: https://education.theiet.org/
Looking for some Summer inspiration? Discover our full range of Summer resources for primary: Summer STEM resources for primary (theiet.org)
