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Lesson Plan: Assembling the AMA Alpha Model Aircraft
Objective:
Students will learn the basics of model aircraft assembly, understand the principles of aerodynamics, and develop fine motor skills.
Materials Needed:
- AMA Alpha Model Aircraft Kit
- Instruction manual (included in the kit)
- Rubber bands (included in the kit)
- Small screwdriver
- Glue (if needed for minor repairs)
- Safety goggles
Duration:
2 hours
Lesson Outline:
Introduction (15 minutes)
- Welcome and Introduction:
- Briefly introduce the AMA Alpha Model Aircraft and its components.
- Explain the objectives of the lesson.
- Discuss the importance of safety and wearing safety goggles.
- Basic Aerodynamics:
- Explain the basic principles of aerodynamics (lift, thrust, drag, and gravity).
- Show how these principles apply to the AMA Alpha Model Aircraft.
Assembly Instructions (60 minutes)
- Unboxing and Identifying Parts:
- Have students unbox their kits and lay out all the parts.
- Identify each part using the instruction manual.
- Wing Assembly:
- Guide students through attaching the main wing to the fuselage.
- Explain the importance of the wing’s position for balance and flight.
- Tail Assembly:
- Assemble the horizontal and vertical stabilizers.
- Attach them to the fuselage, ensuring they are aligned correctly.
- Propeller and Rubber Band:
- Attach the propeller to the front of the aircraft.
- Demonstrate how to properly install and wind the rubber band for propulsion.
- Final Checks:
- Ensure all parts are securely attached.
- Perform a balance check to ensure the aircraft is ready for flight.
Flight Testing (30 minutes)
- Pre-Flight Check:
- Review the pre-flight checklist with students.
- Ensure the center of gravity is correct.
- Test Flights:
- Conduct test flights in an open area.
- Observe and note any adjustments needed for better flight performance.
- Troubleshooting:
- Discuss common issues (e.g., imbalance, improper wing alignment) and how to fix them.
Conclusion (15 minutes)
- Review and Q&A:
- Recap the key points of the lesson.
- Answer any questions students may have.
- Cleanup:
- Ensure all materials are put away properly.
- Encourage students to take their models home for further practice.
- Feedback:
- Ask students for feedback on the lesson and what they enjoyed the most.
AFS Age Group