STEM Sailboat Shipbuilding Challenge

STEM Sailboat Shipbuilding Challenge: Teams or individuals will design, and construct sailboats based on specific instructions. Teams or individuals may amend their designs as needed based on their own sea trials. Once complete, teams or individuals are encouraged to film their progress and send their video to education@navymemorial.org. If all requirements are met, teams or individuals may receive national recognition by the Navy Memorial and more.

Elementary School Grades K-5: STEM Sailboat Shipbuilding Challenge

GRADES K-5

Title: Grades K-5: Sailboat Shipbuilding Challenge

Grade Level: K-5 (adaptable for higher grades)

Duration: Flexible, depending on the depth of each activity. Can be spread across multiple days or weeks.

Learning Objectives:

  • Science:

    • Understand concepts of buoyancy, density, and water displacement.

    • Explore different forces (wind, water resistance) and their impact on movement.

    • Learn about different types of boats and their purposes.

    • For higher grades: delve into simple physics calculations related to speed, distance, and time.

  • Technology:

    • Use digital tools (if available) for research, design, and documentation.

    • Explore 3D modeling (optional, for higher grades).

  • Engineering:

    • Engage in the engineering design process (ask, imagine, plan, create, test, improve).

    • Apply problem-solving skills to design challenges.

    • Develop spatial reasoning and fine motor skills during construction.

  • Art:

    • Express creativity through boat design and decoration.

    • Explore aesthetics and design principles.

  • Math:

    • Measure and compare boat dimensions.

    • Calculate speed and distance.

    • Collect and analyze data from boat races.

Materials:

  • Recycled Materials: Potential Items include: (plastic bottles, cardboard, Styrofoam, straws, fabric scraps, etc.)

  • Basic Tools: Scissors, tape, glue, markers, rulers

  • Optional:

    • Rain gutter regatta inflatable course

    • Small pool or tub for testing

    • Weights for testing load capacity

    • Digital timers

    • Cameras for documentation

    • Computer/tablet for research and design

Lesson Sequence:

1.     Introduction & Exploration (1-2 class periods):

    • Hook: Engage students with videos of different boats (sailboats, submarines, cargo ships).

    • Discussion: What are boats? Why do they float? What are they used for?

    • Research: Explore different types of boats and their features. (K-2 can focus on basic types, 3-5 can research specific classes).

    • Guest Speaker: Invite a boat builder, sailor, or naval engineer (if possible) to share their expertise.

2.     Design & Planning (1-2 class periods):

    • Design Challenge: Present the boat design challenge.

      • K-2: Focus on basic boat shapes and floating ability.

      • 3-5: Introduce specific requirements (e.g., must carry a certain weight, must be propelled by wind/rubber band, etc.).

    • Brainstorming: Encourage students to sketch ideas and discuss design choices.

    • Planning: Guide students to create detailed plans with material lists and measurements.

3.     Construction & Testing (2-3 class periods):

    • Building: Provide dedicated time for students to construct their boats.

    • Testing: Set up a testing area (pool, tub, or rain gutter regatta) for students to test their designs.

    • Modifications: Encourage students to observe, analyze, and modify their designs based on testing results.

4.     Race Day & Reflection (1-2 class periods):

    • Competition: Organize a boat race with clear rules and safety guidelines.

    • Data Collection: Have students record race times and other data.

    • Reflection: Discuss the results, challenges faced, and lessons learned.

    • Awards: Recognize creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills (not just speed).

Assessment:

  • Formative: Observe student engagement, participation in discussions, and design choices.

  • Summative: Evaluate boat designs, construction quality, race performance, and written reflections.

Differentiation:

  • Support: Provide pre-cut materials, templates, and step-by-step instructions for younger students or those needing extra support.

  • Challenge: Offer advanced design challenges (e.g., incorporating renewable energy sources, designing for specific environments, etc.) for older or more advanced students.

Sustainability Considerations:

  • Emphasize the use of recycled materials.

  • Discuss the importance of reducing waste and protecting our waterways.

  • Explore the impact of boat design on the environment.

Extension Activities:

  • Research: Explore the history of boat building and famous naval architects.

  • Writing: Write stories, poems, or technical reports about their boats.

  • Art: Create artwork inspired by their boat designs.

  • Field Trip: Visit the Navy Memorial or, a local marina, shipyard, or maritime museum.

This lesson plan provides a framework for a fun and engaging learning experience. Remember to adapt it to your specific classroom needs and resources. Have fun building a future fleet!

Once complete, teams or individuals are encouraged to film their progress and send their video to education@navymemorial.org. If all requirements are met, teams or individuals may receive national recognition by the Navy Memorial and more.

To explore additional Sea Service Competitions, click each of the three seals below to learn the specific characteristics of the Sea Service Project, Engagement Challenge, and the Sea Service Video Challenge.