Unveiling the Secrets of Air Resistance: MYP 1’s Exploration in the Classroom

I am delighted to share a captivating journey of discovery undertaken by our MYP 1 students at the English International School of Bratislava. Within the framework of the IB, these budding scientists embarked on an intriguing exploration of air resistance through an engaging laboratory experiment conducted right in our classroom.

The classroom was abuzz with excitement as our young scientists delved into the concept of air resistance. Armed with curiosity and creativity, the students set out to explore the impact of air resistance on falling objects.

Using their ingenuity, the students constructed parachutes of varying designs and sizes, eager to test their hypotheses about air resistance. With careful consideration given to materials and designs, the parachutes were prepared for their descent. Alongside the parachutes, paper balls and pages were also readied for comparison.

The classroom turned into a theater of scientific observation as the parachutes, paper balls, and pages were released to plummet to the ground. The students keenly observed and recorded their observations, noting the differing rates of descent and the impact of air resistance on each object.

Following the experiment, our young scientists engaged in a reflective discussion, drawing conclusions based on their observations. They contemplated the varying effects of air resistance on different objects, pondering the significance of design, surface area, and material in mitigating or enhancing air resistance.

This hands-on exploration perfectly encapsulated the principles of inquiry-based learning within the IB framework. The students were encouraged to ask questions, hypothesize, experiment, and reflect—an integral part of developing scientific inquiry skills.

At our school, fostering curiosity and a spirit of inquiry is paramount. This experiment not only enhanced the students’ understanding of air resistance but also instilled in them the joy of scientific discovery and problem-solving.

The construction of parachutes and the subsequent observations encouraged our MYP 1 students to think creatively and critically. It allowed them to apply their theoretical knowledge to a practical scenario, fostering a deeper understanding of scientific concepts.

In moments like these, where learning transcends the confines of textbooks and embraces hands-on experimentation, we witness the true essence of education—the spark of curiosity and the thrill of discovery.