Parachute investigation

Kestrels enjoyed completing a parachute investigation to further develop our understanding of forces. First, groups agreed upon the elements needed for a successful parachute and the impact of gravity and air resistance. Some groups decided to investigate changing the size of the parachute, while others focused on the type of material the parachute was made from. Fair testing was a vital part of this activity, and one variable was changed in each investigation. 

We carefully recorded our results in a table and repeated each test three times to increase the degree of trust in our results. We then used the results to calculate the average time so we could make comparisons and conclusions.

We concluded the largest size of the parachute was the most effective as it took the longest time to reach the ground. This parachute increased air resistance and reduced gravity.

The best material for the parachute was either the plastic bag or the bin bag. Groups concluded that these materials were flexible and captured the air easily so made the most effective parachutes.

Many groups shared interesting ideas for further investigations: changing the load on the end of the parachute, changing the length of the string on the parachute, changing the weight of the load and investigating a greater range of materials. 

Well done to all Kestrels for some interesting scientific learning.