Building and Flying Model Airplanes

Building and flying model airplanes is an amazing activity that I did with my pupils during one of the school vacations. There's no doubt that I earned "Brownie Points" on that day.

So what exactly was it about that activity that fascinated the kids so much?

• The build of a bird's body that enables it to fly.
• The yearning of humans to fly like birds.
• The many attempts man made in order to fly.
• The Wright brothers who succeeded in building and flying the first airplane.

Flying kites - A popular hobby for both kids and adults

At the end of the explanation the kids began the task. Each child received a wooden model airplane kit, and was requested to paint the pieces. The kids planned their work and painted the model airplanes. The creativity that they demonstrated through painting and decorating was superb, and although all the kids received exactly the same kit, no two model airplanes were alike.

At this stage we were forced to take a break in the activity in order to allow the paint to dry. We took advantage of the time for a wonderful breakfast...

Once the paint had dried, we returned to assemble the model airplanes. The assembly process of the model airplane was simple but demanded accuracy when placing the pieces. If a piece is not put precisely in the right place, the balance and aerodynamics are affected. When all of the model airplanes had been built all that was left for us to do was to go outside to the yard and to fly model airplanes.

The kids had an amazing time with their model airplanes in the yard. It was great!

I so wanted to attach pictures so that you could see for yourself some of the amazing moments that we experienced. Unfortunately, as it took place a long time ago, I have no idea where the pictures are.

Although several years have passed since then, and the kids have completed their studies at my school, still whenever I happen to meet up with the kids they reminisce about the model airplane activity. No doubt it was an amazing experience for them.

And it can be an amazing experience for your kids too, all you need is a model airplane kit and little spare time.

And don't forget...
Take pictures during the activity as a memento and send me copies. This time I promise to take good care of them so they don't disappear...