Fun and Wonderful Kites: Free Unit Study

If you are looking for a summer fun and educational activity, explore, experiment and have fun with kites!

Fun and Wonderful Kites!, a unit study written by Elece Hollis that originally appeared in Home School Enrichment magazine, begins by explaining the variety of ways kites have been used throughout history.

Next, you set up your notebook, and begin exploring your favorite types of kites.

A book list is offered for background information.  Then come several ideas for study including research, writing, creating a timeline, sketching and other creative activities.

Finally, it’s time to fly!   Build a kite.  Study the aerodynamics of flight.  And have fun!

Additional Resources

Beginner’s Guide to Kites
Very complete and informative from NASA covering science and math fundamentals, aerodynamics, atmosphere, forces, and weight.

Interactive Kite Modeler
Not to be missed also from NASA.  Helps you design, trim and fly!

Kite Math
For older students.

Rough Science Kite Challenge
PBS Rough Science Challenge:  Make a kite from natural products.

Kite Flying
A Great Science Fair Project sample that helps you make and experiment with a kite.

Kite Dynamics
A kite kit that comes with everything you need to build and test hundreds of kites.  This was a big hit at our home for years and highly recommended, despite its being increasingly difficult to find.

Books

Curious George Flies a Kite
The Curious George series is always fun for beginning readers.  In this title, George takes a ride!