Students learn how to harness the wind in classroom turbine challenge

Grade 7/8 students at Glengarry District High School built and tested model wind turbines during a classroom challenge; the top four teams will advance to the Regional Skills Ontario Competition in Kemptville in April 2026.

Grade 7/8 students at Glengarry District High School, guided by teacher Lindsey Howes, studied wind turbines as a source of renewable energy and their effectiveness in different weather conditions. The project combined lessons on building structures and safe tool use with teamwork and clear communication. Students worked in small groups to research, plan and construct miniature wind turbines. The classroom challenge focused on hands-on problem solving and iterative testing. Key details: - Students used materials such as 1cm x 1cm wooden sticks, elastic bands, spoons, small paper cups, cardboard, gears, dowels, straws and other surprise items. - Pupils were divided into teams of four, researched turbines, and drew plans before building. - After two planning sessions, teams had two and a half hours to build, test and adjust their turbines. - Measured power outputs included a top result of 0.865V and a second-highest of 0.715V; one student team reported producing 0.2V. - Judging considered power output, quality of design and construction, adherence to the original plan, teamwork, tool safety and clear explanation of design choices. - The top four teams will advance to compete against other Upper Canada District School Board schools in Kemptville in April 2026, with winners moving on to the provincial Skills Ontario event in Toronto in May 2026. Summary: Students gained practical experience in engineering basics, collaboration and safe tool use through the turbine project, and several teams will proceed to regional and provincial Skills Ontario competitions in April and May 2026. Undetermined at this time.