By Aaryav Walter
Wind energy projects can benefit students’ exposure to the functionality and modern applications of natural factors like wind. Wind energy projects utilize standard air to produce a functioning machine. Check out these three easy wind power projects for middle schoolers.
1. Ski Boat Air Jet
One unique wind power project that exploits the power of the air would be ski boat air jets, which can be completed with a parent. The materials required for this project incorporate a wooden base made of popsicle sticks or another block-shaped object, such as a sponge, a wooden skewer, and paper sales. With adult supervision, the student can insert the skewer on the base and then attach the sales by cutting paper triangles on the skewer with tape. Technology can also enhance this project or be designed effectively using additional materials.
2. Anemometer
An anemometer can be a suitable activity for a middle-school science experience, requiring four plastic cups, a thumbtack, tape, a pencil, and two straws. The teacher demonstrates the project by constructing it. The four cups should be cut on both sides and then attached to either straw, completing the top part of the anemometer. Next, the two straws should be arranged in a perpendicular order where they are taped together and thumbtacked for additional security. Furthermore, the thumbtack should be attached to the pencil to make a holder. The anemometer will assist in discovering the air speed of its location.
3. Enhanced Pinwheel
Although pinwheels are essential for middle-school students, they can be attached to additional materials to enhance the functionality of pinwheels. This activity should be conducted using adult supervision or in a science class where the adult can use alligator clips to attach the pinwheel to a lightbulb after making a simple pinwheel. After enough static energy has been charged using air power, the light bulb should gain control to light up.
Do you want more resources on the topic of wind power projects for middle schoolers? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources by category, school level, and state. This comprehensive library includes info on enrichment activities, curricula, internships, scholarships, and more. Check out a free sampling here. Or get an NSTEM membership today to unlock the complete list.
In middle school, students are transformed, entering as children and emerging as young adults. Project-based learning enrichment helps students connect the dots between STEM and real life, making math and science relevant for them and keeping them engaged and interested. With a meaningful middle school experience, students are far more likely to focus on STEM disciplines in high school and beyond. Click here to start your 6-8 middle school chapter of the National STEM Honor Society.
