How high will it go?
Finding the height achieved by a flying object using trigonometry.
In this activity learners will work out the height of a released balloon using a clinometer and trigonometry. This is one of a series of resources designed to allow learners to use the theme of the future of flight to develop their knowledge and skills in in Design and Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
This activity could be used as a main lesson activity to teach learners about the practical application of trigonometry. It could also be used as part of an introduction to the use of trigonometry within engineering.
You will need:
- Thin card
- Balloons
- Balloon pump, if required
- Brass split pin paper fasteners
- Scissors
- Sharp pencils and erasers
- Calculators
- Tape measure
Download the activity sheets for free below!
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 teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
Please share your classroom learning highlights with us @IETeducation.
Available Downloads
Activity overview
How high will it go activity description, notes and curriculum links
Presentation
Presentation outlining how to run the activity
How high will it go handout
Template and instructions for making the protractor
How high will it go worksheet
Worksheet to record the results of the activity
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