Building and Flying Tetrahedron Kites: A Hands-On Science Project Encourages Critical Thinking and Exploration of Flight Principles

As part of New Haven Public Schools Science Week, students from across the district engaged in a hands-on project to build and fly their own tetrahedron kites. This exciting initiative was made possible by a generous donation from Trevi Therapeutics. The project aimed to demonstrate the scientific principles of flight through experimentation and critical thinking, showcasing the importance of these skills in science education.

Last week, students at East Rock Community Magnet school built and flew a prototype kite designed by Alexander Graham Bell in 1901. This invention laid the foundation for the development of airplanes and military technology. Superintendent Dr. Madeline Negrón visited the students as they worked on their kites, offering support and encouragement throughout the process.

The New Haven Science Week Program, administered by the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce, aims to engage students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 in hands-on projects that promote critical thinking and communication skills. By integrating science and math concepts into a fun and interactive way, students were able to learn and explore the principles of flight through the construction and flight of their tetrahedron kites. Kites have a long history of being used for scientific purposes, and this project served as a modern interpretation of that tradition.