Lesson Idea | Parachutes: What They Are and How They Work

Subject: Science
Grades: K-2

Introduction

What is a parachute? How does it work and what are the uses for it? Students will design and construct a
parachute, experimenting with how different designs will affect the function of the parachute.

Learning Objectives

Students will develop an understanding of the attributes of design and how various features can affect the
function.

Materials Needed

- Parachute by Danny Parker
- Tissue paper or circular coffee filter
- Tape
- Weight (could be an eraser, a small rock, etc.)
- String
- iPad

Procedure

Day 1
1. Students will listen to the book Parachute by Danny Parker. In this story, a boy named Toby carries his
parachute with him wherever he goes. This parachute comes in handy for a variety of events. During the
reading, the teacher can draw attention to how the parachute helped Toby and was very useful to him. After
reading, the teacher should ask the students to reflect on what the parachute looked like. They can show
pictures of parachutes from the internet or from books.
2. Students will then go back to their desks and sketch a design for a parachute based on the images of the
parachute in the book and shown to them.

Day 2
1. Working either by themselves or with a partner, students will be given various materials they can use to
construct their own parachute. Materials should include but are not limited to: string, tissue paper or similar
material, a small weight, and tape.

Day 3
1. Students will test their parachutes outside. Teachers can then decide if the students have time to modify and
re-test, or if it is time to move into reflecting.

Evaluation

Students will take a picture of their parachute and explain their reasoning for their design. Why did they include
various components? Students will also create a video of themselves giving a reflection on how the design helped
or hindered the parachute in its flight. What changes would they make next time? What would they be sure to
include?