Flying a Jet Fighter
9:31
Grades: 6 - 12
Video Description: Apply principles of aerodynamics and streak through the sky faster than the speed of sound with Lt. Colonel (Retired) Steve Dobronski as he shares his experiences as a fighter pilot.
Type of Video: Segment*
Unique Video ID: Aviation-16**
Quick Ideas for Using the Video:
- The video begins with background information about the design, construction, and operation of the F-15 Strike Eagle fighter jet. After seeing that part of the video, pause and have students discuss what they noticed about the design and operation of the plane. What specific characteristics of the plane’s look and capacity would help the pilot succeed at his/her mission?
- Prior to watching the video, let students know that during part of it, the pilot will describe the G forces experienced flying the plane. Check for student understanding about G forces or introduce the concept before viewing the video and, after watching the video, have students discuss their understanding of G forces and their effect on humans.
- After viewing the video, have students discuss any insights they gained into a career in the military as an aviator. What are challenges and opportunities in the career? What interests them about such a career and what does not?
*Segment videos are short excerpts edited from interviews or interactive programs that offer flexible and differentiated ways to use the rich content included in the full-length conversation.
**The unique Video ID can be used to quickly locate a single video in the ET collection. This search function is designed to let teachers assign students to watch a specific video and have only that video appear as a search result. Just click on Search and choose “By Video ID.” Then type in the Video ID as it appears above. Be sure to include the dash.
