Engineering Eagle Wings: Easy 4th of July STEM Activity for Kids

Hello STEM Masters! Looking for a hands-on STEM activity to celebrate the 4th of July with your Little STEM Masters? This simple project helps kids explore biology, engineering, and motion by building flapping eagle wings.

Why Study Eagles?

The bald eagle is the national symbol of the United States and a perfect example to teach about anatomy and movement. Eagles use their muscles and bones to flap their wings and fly. This activity lets kids model how wings work using everyday materials.

Materials Needed

• Jumbo popsicle sticks (4)

• Rubber bands (2)

• Construction paper (brown, white, or red, white & blue)

• Glue or tape

• Safety scissors

• Markers or crayons

• Picture of a bald eagle (optional)

How to Build Your Flapping Eagle Wings

1. Use one popsicle stick as the eagle’s body. Tape it vertically.

2. Attach a popsicle stick to each side as the wings. Use rubber bands where the wings connect to the body to create a hinge that allows the wings to move up and down.

3. Cut feather shapes from construction paper and glue them to the wings.

4. Decorate with markers or crayons—red, white, and blue work great for the 4th of July!

5. Hold the body and gently flap the wings to simulate wing movement.

STEM Concepts Little STEM Masters Learn

• Biology: How bird muscles and bones work together for flight

• Engineering: Using hinges and elastic bands to create motion

• Physics: Understanding motion and force when flapping wings

• Math: Measuring and counting wing parts and flaps

Why This Activity Works

Combining biology, engineering, and physics helps kids see how natural systems work. Plus, building and decorating their eagle wings sparks creativity and fine motor skills.

Ready to build your own dream STEM program?

Book a Coffee Consult with LJ to create your DREAM STEM Program tailored to your students' needs and goals.