STEM Starters: Zip-Line Racers

STEM Starters provide students with essential tools to complete hands-on projects. When combined with everyday items, these materials can be used to design and execute a project using creative exploration and the engineering design process. By approaching a problem or a challenge with this thought process, children are able to make educated guesses, problem-solve, and learn without the fear of making a mistake. Perfect for individuals or small groups.

This activity kit challenges students to create a propeller-powered device that travels along a string. The essential pieces—propellers, rubber bands, craft sticks, and string—are provided; it’s up to the young scientists to determine the best materials to use in order to effectively propel their racer. Using the engineering design process, students will create, evaluate, and redesign their simple machine until their objective is met. Includes enough materials to begin 6 racers. 38 total pieces.