Project Description
Rocket Science
Level: Suitable for Level 3 to Level 6.
Duration: Available in a 60 or 90 minute format. We recommend a 90 minute format if budget and timetabling constraints allow.
Numbers: Each workshop can cater to a maximum of 30 children. However, smaller groups have better access to equipment and the facilitator.
State: VIC, NSW, ACT & QLD
Learning Outcomes
Newton’s Laws of Motion. The three laws are explored in depth and related to rocket movement.
Learn about experimental design and the scientific method.
Measuring instruments involved in rocket launch trajectory and how to read them.
Learn about the important factors effecting rocket design and function.
Activities
Use tape measures to measure force, acceleration and mass (Newton’s Second Law)
Demonstration of various model rockets to explore Newton’s Third Law.
Design an experiment to test how much fuel will be the best for maximising rocket height.
Help launch a water rocket and investigate how much water is needed for optimal height.
90 minute workshops also include these activities:
Make your own sextant to measure trajectory and the rocket’s maximum height.
Discuss rocket design and sketch your ideas.
Victorian Curriculum Links
Forces can be exerted by one object on another through direct contact or from a distance (VCSSU064)
Safely use appropriate materials, tools, equipment and technologies (VCSIS067)
Use formal measurements in the collection and recording of observations (VCSIS068)
Compare observations and predictions with those of others (VCSIS054)
NSW Curriculum Links
Describes how contact and non-contact forces affect an object’s motion (ST2-9PW-ST)
Plans and conducts scientific investigations to answer testable questions, and collects and summarises data to communicate conclusions (ST3-1WS-S)
Describes how digital systems represent and transmit data (ST2-11DI-T)
Observes, questions and collects data to communicate ideas (STe-1WS-S)
Australian Curriculum Links
Forces can be exerted by one object on another through direct contact or from a distance (ACSSU076)
With guidance, plan and conduct scientific investigations to find answers to questions, considering the safe use of appropriate materials and equipment (ACSIS054)
Consider the elements of fair tests and use formal measurements and digital technologies as appropriate, to make and record observations accurately (ACSIS055)
Compare observations and predictions with those of others (ACSIS041)
