The packet Wind Energy, Science Activities in Energy , American Museum of Science and Energy, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, used to adapt windmills to the middle school level. The Program Windmills provide an opportunity to apply science skills and knowledge to a technological problem. Students investigate how science and technology may be used to improve the environment by harnessing a renewable resource. Students construct a windmill blade made from a sheet of heavy paper. This blade is fastened to a hub and axle made from an ice cream pushup which is fitted into a windmill made from a cardboard box.
String is attached to the pushup axle and weights are added to the string.
Students measure lifting ability using a floor fan as a wind source. Weight is added until the windmill blade stalls. Other activities include examination of different types of windmills and research into the variables which affect windmill performance. As a final project, students design a windmill blade that will lift more than any other windmill blade. Overall Value Students relate science and technology by using basic science and applying it in a research setting.