Build a Wind-Powered Machine
Provided by: Paleontological Research Institution|Published on: April 27, 2021|Last updated: September 26, 2026
Grades: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Type: Videos
Subjects: Physics, Earth and Space Sciences, Engineering
Authors: Paleontological Research Institution, Ingrid Zabel
Location: Earth
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This video provides a demonstration of how to build a simple wind-powered machine using a cup, pencil, string, tape, and piece of paper.
- Students will learn that the wind has been used for hundreds of years to power machines and that it continues to be a valuable source of clean energy today.
Teaching Materials
Positives
- This video introduces a fun, hands-on format for learning about wind energy that allows for student and teacher creativity.
Additional Prerequisites
- This resource provides the written directions for this activity, which can be downloaded or printed.
- A canned food item or paper cup can be used instead of a plastic cup and a rolled-up piece of paper will likely work better than a straw, as it is adjustable and it doesn't contribute to plastic pollution.
Differentiation
- Cross-curricular connections could be made with art classes, as students can add their own unique designs, colors, or artwork to the elevators and windmills.
- This video could be used as an introduction to an in-class project or could be watched in class and then assigned as an at-home project.
- Related assignments might include asking students to provide a written or oral summary of the steps of this project after watching, drawing a diagram of the project to demonstrate understanding, or responding to written prompts about the value of wind energy after watching the video.
- Other resources about renewable energy include this online course, this e-book by the Climate Reality Project, and this video by LabXchange.
This 6-minute video presents an at-home or in-class activity in which you build a wind-powered machine that converts wind power (from your lungs) into mechanical lifting power. The necessary material and steps are clearly presented. This resource is recommended for teaching.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
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