The Flight Project

The Flight Project is an original project-based-learning, physics/engineering enrichment course offered online in small groups after school, starting in January 2024, primarily for 10th and 11th graders.

The course, launched last year based on years of research and experience, has three major parts. First, students learn about the process of engineering in the context of the history of aviation by reading Mccullough's The Wright Brothers and creating presentations based on the material. Second, students participate in an engineering design challenge--the design of a wing for a glider--applying physics concepts of projectile motion, aerodynamic forces and potential/kinetic energy. Students develop a wing design to maximize the range of the glider and compete with each other via video submissions. Third, students apply frameworks to assess the social impact of aviation.

It is recommended that students be concurrently enrolled in Precalculus, but they must have completed Algebra 2 and take a placement test as part of the application process.

The course is designed as 20 sessions with a review of physics concepts and related collaborative problem solving. If students have already taken physics or are enrolled concurrently, they may opt for the 10-session "project-only" track. If students have not taken physics or wish additional support and enrichment, the 20-session track is most appropriate.

The courses are offered entirely online except the first and last session, which are planned to be in-person on a weekend to distribute and collect materials. The 20-session class is offered once a week in the early evening starting in January. The 10-session track will be offered in the same way, except every other week. Total enrollment is limited to 15.

Upon satisfactory completion, each student receives a certificate and a personal recommendation letter that may be used for applications to summer programs and colleges.

Materials are $300. The 10-session course is $900 plus materials. The 20-session course is $1800 plus materials. Generous financial-aid packages are available.

AP Physics I and C (Mechanics)

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