Propelling Boats

Engineering

Design Challenge

Create a boat that floats on water and uses stored elastic potential energy to propel the boat forward. Do this as a step-by-step activity with your students, or a design challenge!

Concepts at a Glance

Curriculum Connections

Science 4

Energy can be transformed.

Science 5

Machines are devices that transfer force and energy.

Science 6

Newton’s three laws of motion describe the relationship between force and motion.

Science 7

(Applicable if you use DC motors to power the boat instead of rubber bands)

Electricity is generated in different ways with different environmental impact

‍

Materials

2 paper plates
aluminum foil
rubber band
2 skewers
2 straws
popsicle sticks
modelling clay
hot glue, tape, and scissors

‍

Activity Instructions

Worksheets

Boat Design Challenge Slides

Lesson Plan

Download Lesson Plan