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In this activity, learners work in NASA teams to build balloon-powered rockets using identical parts and compete to launch the greatest number of paper clips to "space" (the ceiling). The rockets learners build model the Ares V heavy lift launchers that carry heavy payloads into orbit. This lesson plan includes background information, tips, discussion questions and answers, and a "Mission Report" sheet for learners.
- 30 to 45 minutes
- 1 to 2 hours
- $10 - $20 per group of students
- Ages 8 - 14
- Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Model
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- Large binder clips (one per launch pad)
- Fishing line or smooth string
- Long balloons (sometimes called 524 airships or balloons)
- Bathroom size (3 oz) paper cup
- 2 straight drinking straws
- 50 small paper clips
- Sandwich size plastic bag
- Masking tape
- Balloon hand pumps (optional)
- Wooden spring-type clothespins (optional)
Subjects
-
Earth and Space Science
-
Astronomy
- Probes, Satellites and Spacecraft
-
Astronomy
-
Engineering and Technology
-
Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
-
Technology
- Transportation
-
Engineering
-
Mathematics
-
Data Analysis and Probability
- Data Analysis
- Data Collection
- Data Representation
- Number and Operations
- Reasoning and Proof
- Representation
-
Data Analysis and Probability
-
The Nature of Technology
-
The Design Process
- Research and Development
- Invention and Innovation
- Troubleshooting and Maintenance
-
The Design Process
-
Physical Sciences
-
Motion and Forces
- Machines
- Momentum and Velocity
- Acceleration
- Projectile Motion
- Newton's Laws
- Center of Gravity
-
Structure and Properties of Matter
- Mass and Weight
-
Motion and Forces
-
The Nature of Science
-
The Scientific Process
- Conducting Investigations
- Gathering Data
- Formulating Explanations
- Communicating Results
-
The Scientific Process
Informal Categories
- Model Building
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- read
- be mobile
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves teamwork and communication skills
- Uses STEM to solve real-world problems
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:
Includes assesments for student learning:
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
- Shearer, Deborah A. ; Vogt, Ed.D., Gregory L.
Rights:
- Public domain, ,