DECEMBER

ACTIVITY PLAN
Activity Title: Balloon Car
Category: Engineering
Activity Goal: To design and build a balloon-powered car using recycled materials. The activity develops creativity, engineering thinking, and teamwork skills.

Resources Needed:

• Plastic bottles + caps
• Drinking straws
• Balloons
• Rubber bands
• Adhesive tape
• Scissors
• A small cutter
• Wooden sticks (skewers)
• Access to tutorial video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RStgV8mA-gA&t=18s

1. Introduction:

• The teacher explains the purpose of the activity: building a balloon-powered car using recycled materials.
• Discuss the scientific principle: reaction force – the air escaping from the balloon pushes the car forward.
• Watch a short tutorial video for better understanding.

2. Exploring the Idea of Engineering:

• Quick discussion: “How can engineers turn a simple idea into a useful invention?”
• Students are encouraged to notice how everyday materials can be reused to create a functional object.

3. Building the Balloon Car:

• Students work in small teams (2–3 members).
• Step-by-step process:

1. Cut two straws of equal length and tape them to the plastic bottle.
2. Cut the wooden sticks slightly longer than the straws and insert them through the straws — these will be the axles.
3. Make a small hole in the bottle cap, insert the wooden stick, and attach the plastic caps to the ends — these will be the wheels.
4. Repeat the process for the front wheels and make sure the wheels spin easily.
5. Insert the shorter end of a straw into a balloon and secure it with a rubber band.
6. Make a small hole at the top of the plastic bottle and insert the straw with the balloon so that it comes out through the bottle opening.
7. Fix the straw with adhesive tape.

4. Testing and Observation:

• Inflate the balloon and release the car — watch it move!
• Students compare the speed and distance of their balloon cars.
• Organize fun mini races between teams.

5. Reflection and Conclusion:

• Short discussion:

• “What made the car move?”
• “How could we improve our design?”
  • The teacher highlights the connection between science and engineering — observing, testing, and improving ideas.
  • Creativity and teamwork are praised for all teams.

 Final Outcome:
A functional balloon-powered car made from recycled materials, demonstrating how air pressure and reaction force can be used for movement — a hands-on STEM experience that combines learning, creativity, and fun.