Friday, October 3, 2025
Fourth-grade students in Mrs. Pittmann's Hi-Cap class took inspiration from the Renaissance master of invention, Leonardo da Vinci, for their latest STEM/STEAM project. Focusing on enrichment and project-based learning, the advanced learners dove deep into Da Vinci's revolutionary ideas, including his groundbreaking concept for a parachute.
From Sketch to Sky
The project began by examining Da Vinci’s intricate concept-drawing of a pyramid-shaped parachute, an invention he conceived over 400 years ago. Using skills like problem-solving and higher-order thinking, the students then began their engineering challenge: to design and build their own functioning device inspired by his work.
The Hi-Cap program is designed to challenge students to apply the STEM/STEAM process to real-world situations. This project was a perfect example, as students had to utilize scientific principles to create a solution (a working parachute) to a very practical problem (slowing a fall). Through the process, they learned about key scientific concepts like air resistance and gravity.
Testing the Design
The real excitement came when the class took their finished parachutes to the middle school track for a live drop test. Students watched as their carefully crafted devices floated down, offering immediate, real-world data on their design’s performance.
Following the drops, the class engaged in critical reflection, a vital component of the engineering process. Students discussed what worked well, what factors affected the speed of the descent, and how they could improve their designs in the future.
This hands-on exploration of Da Vinci's genius not only brought history to life but also provided a dynamic way for students to apply their advanced learning skills to a fun, challenging, and unforgettable engineering task.
