Glider Center of Gravity Pitch Trim STEM Lab (AERO05)

Transform basic glider flights into an authentic, quantitative flight mechanics investigation with the Glider Center of Gravity Pitch Trim STEM Lab (AERO05)! Designed for Middle School Physical Science, Physics, Earth & Space Science, Math, and STEM classes, this 3-page, print-ready lab packet challenges students to solve stall and dive behaviors by balancing center of gravity (CG) and center of lift (CL).

What Is Included in This 3-Page Packet?

• 📋 Page 1: Teacher Guide & Lesson Plan

  Features NGSS alignment (MS-PS2-2 Forces & Motion, MS-ETS1-2 and MS-ETS1-3 Engineering Design), key flight mechanics concepts, flight runway setup guidelines, expected learning outcomes, fulcrum balance tips, and a full teacher answer key.

• 🛩️ Page 2: Student Mission Card & Blueprint

  Hooks students with a real-world cargo glider flight stability scenario. Includes material constraints (balsa/foam glider, clay ballast, ruler, fulcrum stand, tape, measuring tape) and a dedicated schematic sketching area to diagram longitudinal balance, pitch torque forces, center of gravity, and elevator trim vectors.

• 📊 Page 3: Testing Log & Scientific Reflection

  Features a structured flight testing table recording CG position in millimeters, ballast configuration, glide distance in meters, pitch behavior notes (stall, dive, smooth), and calculated glide ratio. Includes an applied math section to calculate CG Position Percentage (% chord) and Glide Ratio Efficiency, followed by reflection questions on stall recovery and commercial aircraft load balance.

Educational Value & Key Benefits:

• Hands-On Aircraft Mechanics Physics: Connects physical weight distribution to aerodynamic lift, pitch torque, and flight trajectory stability.

• Integrates Applied Math: Features practical percentage calculations (% chord location) and ratio formulas (glide ratio = distance / drop height).

• Low-Cost High-Engagement STEM: Utilizes affordable balsa or foam gliders, clay, and rulers for high-impact physics instruction across Grades 6–8.