Make a paper aeroplane launcher

In this project learners will learn about flight and making a successful paper aeroplane.

They will make the launching mechanism to propel their plane and will then test their launchers and observe how they work.

This activity could be used as a main lesson activity to teach learners basic marking out and model making skills. It could also be used as part of a wider scheme of learning focussing on the history and development of design, technology and engineering, alongside other flight-themed IET resources.

Activity: Making a launching device for paper aeroplanes (H2)

This is one of a series of resources that are designed to allow learners to use the theme of the second world war to develop their knowledge and understanding in Design & Technology and Engineering. This resource was inspired by the theme of flight. It supports the teaching of design and technology in context by making a paper aeroplane and launching device.

Tools/supplies needed:

Resources required:

• Thick paper or card A4
• Scissors
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Elastic band
• Paper clips
• Tape or stapler

Follow our step-by-step guide to make a paper aeroplane launcher

Step 1

• Place your A4 paper in portrait position
• Fold in half lengthways
• Open up the paper and then fold both sides into the middle

Step 2

• Next fold both sides again into the middle
• Then fold the point downwards

Step 3

• Turn paper over and fold again into centre
• Now open the flaps

Step 4

• Turn it over again and fold the pointed end upwards
• Fold in half inwards again

Step 5

• Fold wing inwards, turn paper over and repeat second side
• Your plane is almost complete – fold the wing tips to give it some stability

The launcher

Step 1

• Cut a piece of A4 paper or card to 20cm x 20cm
• Then fold in half

Step 2

• Now fold one half back on itself
• Repeat on other side

Step 3

• Open out to ensure you have it right
• Then fold edge up on both sides

Step 4

• Staple your elastic band to inside bottom corner
• Loop it over the launcher so it is around the back edge

Aeroplane and launcher

• Put your plane on the launcher facing the staple end
• Pull apart the sides of the launcher to send the plane soaring!

Extension

• Add decoration such as camouflage to your launcher
• What happens if you use a shorter or longer elastic band?
• Could you improve this launching device using other materials?

The Engineering Context

Understanding about the history of engineering and design helps engineers to learn from past successes and mistakes. For example, learning about how mechanisms are used to help create enhanced movement, such as the catapult for launching panes from carriers.

Suggested learning outcomes

This resource combines Science, Design and Technology and Engineering, with the aim that the learners will be able to make and test a paper aeroplane and launcher and be able to develop practical skills in manipulating materials skillfully.

Download our activity sheet and other teaching resources

All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs.

The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

You can download our step-by-step instructions below as a classroom lesson plan and PowerPoint presentation.

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