What’s happening in Year 5 – Week 5

This week, Year 5 took part in an exciting hands-on science experiment exploring air resistance and how it affects falling objects. The big question was:

“How can we reduce the amount of air resistance on objects?”

To find out, pupils planned and carried out a fair test, using a range of materials including balloons, bin bags, eggs, and straws.

The aim was to design something that would slow down the impact on a dropped egg — essentially creating a mini parachute or protective structure. Each group approached the challenge differently, experimenting with shape, size, and materials to see which design would create the most air resistance.

The children really enjoyed the activity. They came up with lots of creative ideas, tried different materials and designs, and enthusiastically tested them — some even revisited their designs mid-test to improve them.

As expected, results varied. Some eggs landed safely thanks to clever designs that slowed their fall; a few eggs didn’t quite survive the drop, teaching pupils valuable lessons about testing, adjusting, and improving their ideas.

Overall, the investigation was a huge success! Year 5 demonstrated fantastic teamwork, creativity, and scientific thinking while discovering first-hand how air resistance works. Well done, Year 5!