Zipline Lesson Plan
Fun Facts

Your experience on a zipline actually all comes down to science. For example, if you want to go faster, tuck your knees and arms to make your body as small as possible and reduce the drag (The friction of air hitting the body). If you what to slow down, spread your arms and legs out like a star to increase the force of air slowing you down.
Ask your students to guess who will go faster; people who weigh more or less, and then test your hypothesis and figure out why (Think potential energy). Finally, practice steering by using torque from your wrist and your momentum. Don’t hesitate to ask your guide to explain how the course works.

Before You Go
Call ahead to make a reservation, ensure everyone will be within the height and weight restrictions (No taller than 6’5” and minimum weight of 50 lbs and no greater than 250 lbs)

What to Wonder
Ask: How does the zipline function? How does the equipment differ between younger and older users? Have your students talk and think about what goes into designing a zipline.
Observe: How your teammates react and interact. Remember to stay positive-everyone is different and brings unique advantages to the team.
Describe: How each team member contributed. What the outcomes were for the races Tucked up vs Star.
Opinion: Why does the ziplinners form matter for speed?
Compare: Their experience of using the zipline. What was the hardest part and Why? What part was the most fun?

Follow Up
Discuss: In what situations would you need a zipline? Could they function as a clean transportation? Why or Why not?
Research: The history of ziplining and where it originated.
Project: Design a small scale zipline and challenge students basic math and physics.