Biological flight mechanics is typically taught in graduate level college classes rather than in secondary
school classes. We developed an interdisciplinary unit for advanced upper-level secondary school
students (ages 15–18) to teach the principles of flight and applications to biological systems. This unit
capitalised on the tremendous biological diversity seen in powered flight (the rock pigeon, Columba
livia), gliding (the colugo, Galeopterus variegatus and the flying snake, Chrysopelea paradisi) and passive
transport (the wheat rust fungus, Puccinia graminis). These biological systems were translated
through the construction and operation of remote-controlled gliders. The unit was conducted in three
parts: a 20-minute recorded video on aerodynamic principles (Part 1), a 2.5-hour session including the
aerodynamic applications to biological systems and the construction of the remote-controlled gliders
(Part 2), and a two-hour session for testing, calibration and operation (flying) of the gliders (Part 3).
Following this lesson, students will be able to take elements from multiple disciplines and synthesise
them in new ways to give original insights in answering critical-thinking questions inspired by
biological flight. Introducing students to interdisciplinary approaches early in their academic careers not
only enhances their present learning, but also prepares them for future interdisciplinary environments.
This unit could easily be adapted by other educators to fit the needs of specific secondary school and/or
college classes.

• To Fly or Not to Fly: Teaching advanced secondary school students about principles of flight in biological systems

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