Youth Activity Archive

Activity Description: Youth create a simple foam glider by attaching foam wings to a straw or stick and testing how it flies.

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Items Needed:

• Foam sheets
• Scissors
• Straw or wooden stick
• Tape or glue
• (Optional) Markers or stickers for decorating

Instructions (Estimated Total Time: 25 min):

1. Cut two foam wings. (5 min)
   • Make one long wing for the front and one short wing for the back.
2. Make slits for the wings. (5 min)
   • Cut small slits in each foam piece so they can slide onto the straw or stick.
   • (Optional) Use tape or glue to keep the wings from sliding.
3. Attach the wings. (5 min)
   • Slide the long wing near the front of the straw.
   • Slide the short wing near the back.
   • Adjust spacing to help the glider fly better.
4. Test the glider. (5 min)
   • Toss it gently forward to see how it flies.
   • Make changes if it flips, dives, or falls quickly.
5. (Optional) Decorate the glider. (5 min)
   • Add drawings or stickers to personalize the design.

Step-by-Step Tutorials:

• Alternative Instructions: AMA Flight School – Foam Plate and Plastic Straw Gliders
• Alternative Instructions: Instructables – Foam Plate Glider
• Video: Fuad Phenomenon – Foam Board Glider