Students can select from a number of types of paper for balloon construction. All students will be using the pattern provided and the method of construction outlined in the teacher notes for the initial balloon construction. Have students launch their balloons recording information on the balloon flight data chart provided. After the class has discussed the results see if they can develop a relationship between the type of construction materials used and the altitude obtained. Using the balloon flight data chart have the students discuss any relationships that they may find between the air temperature and the temperature at the mouth of the balloon.
Students can redesign their balloons to see if they can improve the altitude obtained.
Students can graph the relationship between the mass of the balloon and altitude obtained. A contest to see how much mass balloons can lift could be held. Students will be evaluated on the success of their balloon design. Students can be asked to write a paragraph on why hot air balloons rise.