1. Kites need wind.
A kite needs wind to move. If a breeze starts to blow, your kite will rise into the air.
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What Makes a Kite Fly?
You are going to read a story about a kite contest. Here are some facts to know first.
By Blair Rainsford
From the March / April 2026 Issue
Learning Objective: Before they read the Mini Graphic Novel, “Pine School Pals: The Kite Contest,” students will learn about kites and what makes them fly.
Lexile® measure: 360L
Featured Skill: Key details
Standards
JULIETTE RODEGHIERO
2. Kites need to be light.
A kite has to be light. A kite made of thin plastic or fabric will be light enough to stay in the air.
This kite is made of a plastic garbage bag! The plastic is light. The kite flies well.
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3. Kites need to be strong.
The wind can blow hard and fast. A strong gust of wind can rip a paper kite easily.
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4. Kites need to be balanced.
A kite that is balanced won’t tip over or fly too much to one side.
This kite is a diamond shape. Both sides are the same. That helps the kite stay balanced.
Activities
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Skills Activities
Answer Key
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Text-to-Speech