Best Paper Glider STEM Challenge | Design Cycle | Data & Engineering Activity for Grades 6-8

Launch your students into hands-on engineering with this engaging Best Glider STEM Challenge! Designed for middle school (Grades 6-8), this activity guides students through the design cycle as they define their own design specifications, build and test three different glider models, analyze flight data, and select the "best" glider based on evidence.

Perfect for STEM, STEAM, or science classes, this low-prep activity encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration — while staying fun and classroom-friendly.

What’s Included:

✅ Editable Lesson Plan (Madeline Hunter format)
✅ Student Design Specification Sheet
✅ Student Data Collection & Comparison Sheet

✅ Easy to understand grading rubric aligned to the standards
✅ Teacher Instructions & Tips

Skills & Concepts Covered:

• The Engineering Design Process
  
• Data Collection & Analysis
  
• Criteria & Constraints in Design
  
• Flight Principles: Lift, Drag, Stability
  
• Evidence-Based Decision Making
  
• Hands-on Collaboration & Problem-Solving
  

Why Teachers Love This Resource:

✔️ Low-prep & uses simple materials (paper, tape, scissors)
✔️ Flexible for science, STEM, or enrichment days
✔️ Encourages student ownership & critical thinking
✔️ Built-in differentiation & extension options
✔️ Ready for project-based learning and NGSS alignment

✔️ Ready Rubric for easy and transparent grading

Perfect For:

STEM/STEAM Challenges
Engineering Units
End-of-Unit Science Projects
Collaborative Group Activities
Fun Friday or Early Finisher Projects
Sub Plans (with clear instructions!)

Engage your students in real-world engineering and watch them soar with data-driven design! Download the Best Glider STEM Challenge today!

Extend learning and scaffold with these Engineering design process worksheet bundle:https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/STEAM-Engineering-Design-Thinking-Worksheets-Grade-6-9-13548459