Rockets Away!

Submitted by smileadmin on Thu, 02/10/2011 - 05:25

Source Institution

Keywords

Description

In this activity, learners work in teams to construct and test fly drinking straw rockets. Learners explore how changing the rockets' fins affect flight distance. Learners also practice teaching others in a way that lets others learn by doing before being told or shown how. At the end, learners have a "Rocket Blast-Off Contest" to see who can design a rocket that flies the furthest.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time: Under 5 minutes
Learning Time: 10 to 30 minutes
Estimated materials cost: $1 - $5 per group of students
Age Range: Ages 6 - 11
Resource Types:
- Activity
- Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language: English

Materials List (per group of students)

6 1" x 2 1/2" adhesive labels
2 Sweetheart (smaller) drinking straws
3 Carnival (larger) milkshake straws
Pair of scissors
Rockets Away! Flight Chart worksheet
Roll of masking tape
Tape measure

Subjects

Informal Categories

Model Building
Transportation

Subjects

Engineering and Technology
- Engineering
  - Aerospace Engineering
  - Transportation Engineering
Mathematics
- Measurement
Physical Sciences
- Motion and Forces
  - Gravity
  - Projectile Motion
The Nature of Science
- The Scientific Process
  - Conducting Investigations
  - Gathering Data
  - Formulating Explanations
  - Communicating Results
The Nature of Technology
- The Design Process
  - Invention and Innovation
  - Problem Solving
  - Troubleshooting and Maintenance