Renewable Energy Windmill Model Build
Build a working pinwheel windmill and test how wind speed and blade angle affect rotation. Engineering meets environmental science in this hands-on STEM project.
What You'll Need
- 1Paper or cardstock
- 2Scissors
- 3Push pin
- 4Pencil with eraser
- 5Ruler
- 6Small paper cup and beads (optional, for load testing)
What You'll Need
Paper or cardstock (8x8 inches)
Scissors and a ruler
A push pin
A pencil with an eraser
Small paper cup and beads (optional)
How to Play
Cut a square of cardstock. Cut from each corner toward the center, stopping 1 inch from the middle.
Fold alternate corner points to the center. Pin through all points into a pencil eraser.
Blow — it spins! "Wind energy becomes rotation. That's how turbines work."
Test wind speed: gentle blow vs. hard blow. More wind = faster spin.
Make a second pinwheel with different blade sizes. Compare.
Add a load: hang a small cup from the shaft. Add beads. "More load = harder to spin."
"Where should wind farms go? Why hilltops and offshore?"
The Science Behind It
Wind turbines convert kinetic energy (moving air) into rotational energy (spinning blades), which generators convert to electricity. The amount of energy captured depends on wind speed, blade size, and blade angle. Your pinwheel models all three variables. Real wind turbines can power entire cities using this same principle — wind is free, renewable, and produces zero emissions.
Tips
Use stiff cardstock rather than thin paper. Stiff blades catch wind more effectively.
Make sure the pin allows the pinwheel to spin freely. If it's too tight, the friction stops it.
Take the pinwheel outside on a windy day and observe how it responds to natural gusts.
Compare pinwheel designs: 4 blades vs. 8 blades, wide blades vs. narrow. Which captures more wind?
Discuss the environmental trade-offs: wind turbines produce clean energy but affect birds and scenery. Real engineering involves balancing benefits and costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 30 min, with 5 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: paper or cardstock, scissors, push pin, pencil with eraser, ruler, and 1 more item.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 8-12 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors or outdoors?
This activity works great both indoors and outdoors, giving you flexibility based on the weather or your space.
How difficult is this activity?
This activity has a moderate difficulty level. It may require some preparation or guidance, but is manageable for most families.
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