STEMsail.org
I hear and I forget • I see and I remember • I do and I understand
MODULES (samples)
MODULE 1 - WIND
What is wind? How do you measure it? Students construct anemometers to measure wind speed, collect data, and compare wind velocity in different locations. This module contains the very basis of sailing knowledge - an awareness of wind and from which direction it is blowing.
MODULE 2 - BUOYANCY
What makes a boat float? What is the basis for a sound hull design? Students test their creative and cooperative skills in this group module which is as fun as it is educational. The fun and learning continues as they put this concept to practical use when sailing on a 420 or a J-22 in our protected marina.
MODULE 3 - SAIL AREA
What shape are sails and why? How do we calculate the area of a triangular sail? What is the perimeter of a sail? Students learn a practical application of the Pythagorean Theorem and a more in-depth understanding of a sail, which is actually a three-dimensional object that creates lift when wind flows around it.
MODULE 6 - MARINE DEBRIS
In this module, students spend time observing and collecting debris on a nearby beach. What appears to be a pristine seashore from a distance actually contains more man-made objects than one can imagine! Students participate in the Rozalia Project by cleaning up and recording marine debris for this national project.
MODULE 7 - UPWIND SAILING ANGLES
Students learn the advantages of tacking a boat at 90 degrees and how they can apply this principle to racing or sailing a boat upwind in optimum fashion.
MODULE 8 - LAND AND SEA BREEZES
Students learn the difference between a land and sea breeze and what causes each to occur. The San Francisco Bay is a perfect venue for this discussion.