Grade 6 · Ages 11-12
Sixth graders can run a controlled test, measure the outcome, and defend the result. These kits give them a vehicle (literally) to use for their investigations.
$1.15
lowest cost per student
45-75 min
activity time
01
Energy conversion · flight
Rubber Band Helicopters
- Simple and quick to build. Challenging and fun to optimize.
- Number of rubber bands, amount of energy stored, flying technique, and the paper cutout all affect flight time.
- Shows energy conversion directly: stored elastic energy becomes rotation, then lift.
Why it fits sixth grade
- By 6th grade, students can push the limits of this project and make it fly higher than the classroom roof.
- Optimizing the helicopter is still challenging enough to keep them engaged for an entire class.
- Kids can master the flying technique, so the nuances of the paper cutout's shape and size are best explored at this age.
$22.46
$24.95
Builds 10 helicopters
Price per student: $2.25
Pack size
02
Drivetrains · vehicles
Rubber Band Cars
- A chain of rubber bands drives the axle directly, creating a super-speedy vehicle.
- The number of rubber bands, how they are wrapped around the frame, and the number of times they're wound around the axle affect the distance traveled.
- All the cars drive straight, so distance and speed make for clear optimization targets.
Why it fits sixth grade
- A more challenging and robust build for lower middle schoolers.
- The kit's unique rubber band system allows students to optimize for speed or distance. Both are independently measurable.
- Builds on the science and engineering concepts from the rubber band helicopter, but this time for driving a vehicle.
$45.86
$50.95
Builds 10 cars
Price per student: $4.59
Pack size
03
Simple circuits · robotics
Wonky Robot Kit
- Students build a motorized robot-styled machine using special high-power motors.
- Combine different wheel attachments to change the driving pattern.
- See frequency and patterns in a delightful robot-styled design.
Why it fits sixth grade
- Jumper-style wire connectors allow students to independently create their own circuit, as well as experiment with reversing the current.
- Students have probably never done a project like this, making engagement an easy win for teachers.
- 6th graders can tackle the more challenging investigations, such as finding a combination of wheels that can overcome various obstacles.
$43.16
$47.95
Builds 10 robots
Price per student: $4.32
Pack size
Run all three as a unit on energy and design
Pack sizes differ between kits, so check the student count on each one before ordering for a full class.
All three kits, one of each
$111.48
$123.85
POs accepted. Free shipping.