Learning about parachutes

We are just starting on our Science topic of Parachutes! Today, as an introductory lesson, we were given a challenge.
In small groups, we were given several pieces of large paper (all the same size) and had to work out the best design that would fall to the floor the SLOWEST.

We weren't allowed to use cellotape or glue, but we could rip, cut, fold and scrunch the paper. We tried out several designs and worked out our best 3 designs.

Tomorrow, once we've decided on our SLOWEST design, we will see which group made the best parachute.

We talked about FAIR TESTING - we had to make sure ...
* all groups were given the same SIZE piece of paper
* we dropped our paper from the same HEIGHT each time
* we used the same person to RECORD the time
* we all tested INSIDE, so the breeze would affect the results.

Stay tuned to see which group had the best parachute design!