Manado, September 6, 2024 — The Science Club at Manado Independent School took to the skies on Sunday, September 8, 2024, for a half-day of kite flying that combined fun with scientific exploration. Held at Bukit Temboan, Rurukan, this event was not only an opportunity for students to enjoy a traditional pastime but also to delve into the physics and engineering principles behind kite flying.
While kite flying may seem like a simple recreational activity, it offers a rich tapestry of scientific concepts. At its core, kite flying is a practical demonstration of principles from physics. The students examined how different wind speeds and directions affected kite performance. As Analee Aurelia Janis, President of the High School Science Club, explained, “You have to have a lot of physics lessons, because if you don’t know the basics on how the wind is going to get through the kite, you’re not going to be able to fly it.”
The Science Club members explored several key concepts during their kite-flying adventure. They focused on observing how the shape and design of a kite affect its flight, as well as the concept of forces including lift, drag, tension, and gravity. Students conducted experiments to see how adjusting the kite’s angle and string length influenced its stability and height. Tristan Benedict Kandou, President of the High School Student Association and a Science Club member, learned a lot about how flying a kite helps them understand science. “It looks easy at first, but it’s actually much more complex,” he said. “The structure of the kites actually matters. Through practical work, we understand science better.”
While the scientific aspects provided valuable learning opportunities, it was the combination of creativity and teamwork that made the event particularly enjoyable. Teachers and science club leaders facilitated interactive sessions where students could experiment with different variables and see real-time results. This practical application of scientific concepts made learning engaging and memorable. The shared experience of kite flying created a sense of unity and helped build friendship and teamwork. As Annalee Aurelia Janis noted, “It actually requires teamwork. If you guys don’t find the right timing to throw it up and to play it, it’s not going to fly properly.”
The kite flying day organized by the Science Club at Manado Independent School exemplified how recreational activities can be seamlessly integrated with educational goals. By connecting the joy of flying kites with the principles of science, students gained a deeper appreciation for the subject while having a blast. The day was a testament to the power of experiential learning and the excitement that comes from discovering science in everyday life.
