The first powered, controlled airplane to fly used a biplane wing arrangement, as did many aircrafts in the early years of aviation. This first aircraft was called the “Wright Flyer,” and it was built by the Wright Brothers. Today, this very airplane is exhibited in the National Air and Space Museum in Washington D.C. But you don’t have to travel hundreds of miles to see a biplane; build your own! Try it at home!
Materials:
- 2 Standard Popsicle Sticks
- 1 Mini Popsicle Stick
- 1 Clothespin
- Glue
- Markers or Paint (optional)
Activity:
Glue the mini popsicle stick to the outside of the clothespin, at very end. Then glue a standard size popsicle stick to the same side of the clothespin, but near the opposite end. Flip your clothespin to the underside. Glue the second popsicle stick parallel to the other one (see photo). After the glue dries, decorate your plane!
Further Exploration:
- The Wright Brothers’ plane has a propeller on the front. Does yours need a propeller too? Another mini popsicle stick might be just the Wright size.