Presentation Overview . . . 2
Lesson Format . . . 4
Balloon Rocketry . . . 6
Alka Seltzer Rocketry . . . 12
Bottle Rocket Project . . . 17
Corporation Packet . . . 22
Model Rocketry . . . 41
Troubleshooting & Other Ideas . . . 43
Acknowledgments . . . 45
3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Presentation Overview
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
For more info visit www.mrgsworld.com
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Presentation Overview
Presentation Overview
Presentation by Anthony Grisillo
This presentation will review several lessons using rocketry to teach
several different curricula strands. One lesson is a comprehensive thematic unit
involving bottle rockets. The presentation packet contains all plans needed to
implement this project. It also gives ideas to extend or expand the project. I
have also listed some problems or obstacles that I have run into and how I have
solved these problems.
Presenter Information
Position
Gifted Support Teacher and Science Coordinator
Rose Tree Media School District
Glenwood Elementary School
Contact
122 South Pennell Road
Media, PA 19063
Anthony_Grisillo@rosetree.k12.pa.us
www.mrgsworld.com
Background
BSED Elementary Education, West Chester University
MED Science and Technology, Widener University
Graduate of US Space Academy Teacher Program
Graduate of US Space Academy Advanced Teacher Program
Schedule
(
Presenter Introduction
(
Review of Shorter Rocketry Lessons
(
Short Video about the Bottle Rocket Project
(
In-Depth Explanation about Implementing the Unit
(
Questions and Answers
(
Evaluation and Prizes
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Lesson Format
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
For more info visit www.mrgsworld.com
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Lesson Format
Lesson Format
Objectives
This area will state several objectives to be achieved by the lesson.
Materials
This area will list the materials needed to implement the lesson. I list everything from
consumable materials to equipment needed, such as computers.
Background Information
This area will give quick instructions on how to build certain things for the lesson. Or it
might discuss some information that would be helpful to know when implementing the lesson.
Procedures
This section will go through the following parts of the lesson:
( Introduction – What do you know? Where will we go?
( Main Lesson – The meat and potatoes of the lesson.
( Evaluation – A very basic way to evaluate the lesson. I suggest altering this to
fit your district’s goals and standards.
( Conclusion – Wrap it up, I’ll take it.
Expansions/Extensions
This section will list several ways to adapt the lesson or expand the lesson to make it
more or less challenging.
Resources
This section will list Internet sites with more information about the lesson and/or its
topics. You can also always go to www.mrgsworld.com.
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan by U.S. Space & Rocket Center
www.mrgsworld.com
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Balloon Rocketry
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
For more info visit www.mrgsworld.com
-6-
3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Balloon Rocket Lesson
Balloon Rocket Lesson
Revised and Edited by Anthony Grisillo
Objectives
1. Students will list Newton’s three laws of motion.
2. Students will build an air-powered balloon vehicle.
3. Students will identify Newton’s laws of motion, using their balloon vehicle as a model.
(For younger students, Newton’s 1st and 3rd laws only need to be demonstrated. For
older students, all three laws should be demonstrated.)
Materials
Various Size and Shape Latex Balloons (Be
Various Mix of Building Materials (Card Stock
sure to check for any latex allergies.)
Paper, Asst. Paper, etc.)
String
Straws
Tape (Masking Tape or Scotch Tape)
Duct Tape
Access to the Internet
Access to a Library
Encyclopedias
Index Cards
Graph paper
Background Information
Newton’s Laws of Motion
Newton’s three laws of motion (in layman’s terms):
1. An object in motion will stay in motion and an object at rest will stay at rest, unless the
object is acted upon by an outside force.
2. Acceleration equals Force divided by Mass.
3. Every action has an equal but opposite reaction.
Balloon Rocket Construction
This is a very simple rocket to build. All you need is a straw, a long piece of string, some
tape, and a balloon.
1. Slide the straw onto the string.
2. Stretch the string across the room and secure both ends tightly with tape. (Duct tape
preferably.)
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Balloon Rocket Lesson
3. Blow the balloon up, holding the balloon closed. (Do not tie the balloon.)
4. Tape the balloon to the straw, open end parallel to the straw.
5. Let go of the open end.
6. Your rocket will now fly down the string track.
Straw
String
Tape
Balloon
Procedures
Introduction
1. Brainstorm what students already know about Sir Isaac Newton.
2. Make a list of everything the students share.
3. Group your class heterogeneously in groups of three or four.
4. Give each group an index card.
5. Tell the groups that they have 15 minutes to find out as much as they can about Sir
Isaac Newton using the Internet, library or any other resource materials.
6. The group should record their findings on their index card, using only the lined side.
They may not use more than the one index card, nor use the other side.
7. After 15 minutes have passed, gather the class together.
8. Have the groups of students share their findings.
9. Make a new list of what they share this time.
10. Compare the two lists to confirm or refute their initial ideas.
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Balloon Rocket Lesson
Main Lesson
1. Tell the students to turn their index cards over.
2. Give them 5-10 minutes to find out Newton’s laws of motion, using the resources
again.
3. Tell the students to write the three laws on the blank side of their index card, in their
own words, if possible. (Some students may not be able to reword the laws because
they do not understand what the laws mean.)
4. After the 5-10 minutes have passed, gather the class together.
5. Have the class share their findings.
6. Make a list of their versions of Newton’s laws of motion.
7. Discuss the true meanings of Newton’s laws of motion.
8. Eventually, demonstrate Newton’s first and third laws of motion using a balloon.
9. Challenge the groups of students to design a way for the balloon to fly in a straight
line, starting at one specific point and stopping at another.
10. Let them use any of the materials that you have supplied, but don’t put the materials
out right away. See if some of the groups ask for specific materials and supply them
as asked for.
11. If no group is heading in the correct direction, put out all of the supplies as a “hint” to
solving the challenge.
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Balloon Rocket Lesson
Evaluation
1. Once all of the students have constructed a balloon rocket, give them a piece of graph
paper.
2. Tell the students that they must explain Newton’s laws of motion by using their balloon
rocket as a model. Be sure their explanations show true understanding of each law.
3. Younger students only need to explain laws one and three.
4. Older students should explain all three.
5. Explanations for each law should include:
Law 1
( The balloon is at rest until air escaping from it propels it forward.
( The friction of the straw against the string and the balloon against the air, plus
the force of gravity, causes the balloon to stop its motion.
Law 2
( The acceleration of the balloon rocket is equal to the force applied by the air
escaping from the balloon divided by the mass of the balloon, straw and tape.
Law 3
( The action of the air escaping from the balloon has an opposite reaction of the
balloon rocket being propelled forward.
6. Have the students share their explanations.
Conclusion
1. Let the students have balloon rocket races.
2. You can have several races, allowing students to adjust their rockets between each
race.
3. Give set time frames for rocket adjustments. All those not ready to race at each given
time, must forfeit that round.
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Balloon Rocket Lesson
Expansions/Extensions
This activity can have lots of expansions/extensions. Don’t be afraid to combine
different activities or incorporate more research. Here are a few suggestions:
( Students can do a full research project on Sir Isaac Newtown.
( Students can develop other models of his laws of motion.
( Students can graph the results of the races.
( Students can test the effect of the length of the straw used on their balloon
rocket. This information can be recorded and then presented to the class.
( Students can test how the shape of the balloon affects the performance of their
balloon rocket.
( Students can analyze the effects of gravity on their balloon rocket by switching
from a horizontal track to a vertical track.
( Students can also adjust the angle of their horizontal track to make it more or
less steep to see how it affects the performance of their rocket.
Resources
http://www.physicsclassroom.com/Class/newtlaws/newtltoc.html - Website about Newton’s
laws of motion.
http://www.quia.com/jq/19675.html - Quiz about Newton’s laws of motion.
http://www.newton.cam.ac.uk/newtlife.html - Website about Sir Isaac Newton.
http://www.yesmag.bc.ca/projects/balloon_rockets.html - Site about another version of
balloon rocket.
http://www.smm.org/sln/tf/r/rocket/rocket.html - Another balloon rocket site.
http://www-2.cs.cmu.edu/~rapidproto/students/pmwilson/balloon_rocket/ - Cool balloon rocket
site, expanding on the basic version I have supplied you.
http://www.allworldknowledge.com/newton/ - Bizarre site about Newton’s laws of motion. I
don’t suggest using it, but I included it to show how silly some sites can be.
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
www.mrgsworld.com
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Alka Seltzer Rockets
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
For more info visit www.mrgsworld.com
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Alka Seltzer Rocket Lesson
Alka Seltzer Rocket Lesson
Original Plan by U.S. Space & Rocket Center, Revised and Edited by Anthony Grisillo
Objectives
1. Students will apply understanding of Newton’s third law of motion.
2. Students will build an Alka Seltzer rocket.
3. Students will collect data and share results using correct methods. (Table and bar
graph.)
Lid snaps into
bottom part.
Materials
Masking Tape
Hot Glue Gun
Graph paper
Eye protection
Glass
Results Sheet
Empty Film Canisters
Black Marker
Water
Tablespoon
Alka Seltzer Tablets
Knife/Rulers
Stopwatches
These canisters
are usually a
translucent white
color.
Illustration #1
(for younger students only)
Background Information
Alka Seltzer Rocket Construction
This is an extremely simple rocket to build. All you need is a film canister, some water and
some Alka Seltzer tablets. The film canister must be the type with lids that snap into canister
part. (see illustration #1)
1. Put 1 tablespoon of water into a film canister. Mark the water level in the canister on
the outside with a marker. Repeat this step for all canisters.
2. Place a whole or part of an Alka Seltzer into a canister filled with water to the line.
3. Snap the lid on and turn the
canister over. (see Illustration #2)
4. Place the canister in this position
on a hard surface.
Marked Water Line
Piece of Alka
Seltzer Tablet
Upside Down
Canister
Lid
Illustration #2
5. The result is explosive!
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan by U.S. Space & Rocket Center
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Alka Seltzer Rocket Lesson
Procedures
Introduction
1. Hold up one whole Alka Seltzer tablet and ask the class what it is.
2. Make a list of everything the students share.
3. Inform the class that it is an Alka Seltzer tablet. Ask the class to share what an Alka
Seltzer tablet is used for and how it is used.
4. Demonstrate how a tablet is used by dropping a tablet in a glass of water.
5. Brainstorm what is causing the reaction that the students see.
6. Verify any suggestions that the tablet contains chemicals, that when added to water,
release a gas, causing the fizziness.
7. Ask students to recall Newton’s third law of motion. (Every action has an equal but
opposite reaction.)
8. Put the class into heterogeneous groups of two to four students.
9. Show the class an empty film canister.
10. Ask the groups to brainstorm ways to use the canister and the Alka Seltzer tablet to
create a rocket. Remind them to think about Newton’s third law of motion.
11. After 10 – 15 minutes, have the groups share their ideas. (If the strategy of putting the
tablet with some water in the canister and flipping it upside down is not suggested, fish
it out of someone or suggest it yourself.)
12. Group the ideas according to similar strategies.
13. Test each strategy suggested in front of the class.
14. Have the class decide on the best strategy to use. (The class inevitably chooses the
correct method because of its explosive results. If your class does not pick this
method, have your school psychologist check them out.)
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan by U.S. Space & Rocket Center
www.mrgsworld.com
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Alka Seltzer Rocket Lesson
Main Lesson
1. Give each group a film canister.
2. Distribute Alka Seltzer tablets to each group. (If you are teaching older students, they
can break the tablets into the correct amounts using the edge of a ruler. If you are
working with younger students, use the knife to cut the tablets before distributing
them.)
3. Give out a record sheet for younger students, or a blank piece of graph paper for older
students, and a stopwatch to each group.
4. Have each group predict how long it will take for the canister to launch, using different
size tablets.
5. Tell the students they must test multiple sizes. They must time how long it takes for
the canister to “launch” and record it on their record sheet.
6. Have the groups do their tests. This is usually best to do outside because of the mess
it creates. Be sure to clean up any Alka Seltzer residue.
7. Ask each group to write a paragraph describing their results and comparing the results
to their prediction.
8. Have all the groups share their results. Every group should record all the data
reported.
9. Tell each group they must now create a graph showing the times for each size tablet.
Evaluation
1. Look over each group’s table and graph. For younger students, they should have filled
out the record sheet properly. For older students, they should have created some sort
of table with the correct labels. Both younger and older students should have created
a bar graph with a title, labels, and an adequate scale. Read their paragraphs. Be
sure their analysis is appropriate.
Conclusion
1. Ask the students how they might be able to use the data collected to create a multistage rocket.
2. Have the groups share their ideas.
3. Let the students try to make and launch a two-stage Alka Seltzer rocket.
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan by U.S. Space & Rocket Center
www.mrgsworld.com
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Alka Seltzer Rocket Lesson
Expansions/Extensions
This activity can have lots of expansions/extensions. Don’t be afraid to combine
different activities or incorporate more research. Here are a few suggestions:
( Students can experiment with the amount of water added.
( Students can experiment using different mixtures that give off a gas (for example,
vinegar and baking soda).
( Students can build a rocket shaft and fins for the film canister.
( Students can discuss why a three-stage rocket is not feasible.
( Students can test other types of canisters to see how the results change.
( Students can use different temperature water to see how it affects the results.
Resources
http://www.funology.com/laboratory/lab041.cfm - Fun site with a version of the Alka Seltzer
rocket on it.
http://mpassero.tripod.com/rocket/seltzer/seltzer.htm - Simple version of this rocket idea.
http://science.howstuffworks.com/question116.htm - Why does Alka Seltzer Fizz?
http://www.alkaseltzer.com – THE site about Alka Seltzer.
http://www.spacegrant.hawaii.edu/class_acts/AlkaRocket.html - An Alka Seltzer rocket lesson
plan.
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan by U.S. Space & Rocket Center
www.mrgsworld.com
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Soda Bottle Rockets
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
For more info visit www.mrgsworld.com
- 17 -
3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Soda Bottle Rocket Lesson
Soda Bottle Rocket Lesson
Original Plan by U.S. Space & Rocket Center and NASA, Revised and Edited by Anthony Grisillo
Objectives
1. Students will establish their own rocket building company.
2. Students will project a budget.
3. Students will balance a checkbook.
4. Students will build a soda bottle rocket.
5. Students will draw a scale model.
6. Students will collect data and share results using correct methods. (Table and bar
graph.)
Materials
String
Yarn
Modeling Clay
Spray Paint (multiple colors)
Goggles
Disposable Gloves
Markers
Plastic Bags
Water
Scale
Altitude Finder
Corporation Packets
Air Pump
Access to Computer
with Word Processing Software
Small Plastic Bottles (20 oz)
Large Plastic Bottles (2 L)
Cardboard (large sheets)
Cardboard (small sheets)
Poster Board (large sheets)
Poster Board (small sheets)
Fin Board
Construction Paper
Duct Tape
Masking Tape
Cool-melt Glue Gun (low heat)
Regular Glue
Soda Bottle Rocket Launcher
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan by U.S. Space & Rocket Center
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Soda Bottle Rocket Lesson
Background Information
Soda Bottle Rocket Construction
Soda bottle rockets are super fun to build and fly surprisingly high. The rockets can be
made with any type of plastic drink bottle with a narrow bottle opening. You can purchase
kits that come with all the supplies to make the rockets or students can use general art
supplies. The plan provided has students create rockets using general materials.
One of the cool things about soda bottle rockets is that they can be made to be any shape
or form. Rockets do not have to be typical rocket shapes. They can be in the shape of a
penguin, a bumble bee, or any other form your students would like to try.
Some hints and suggestions:
( Use the glue gun to attach fins, nose cones, etc.
( Invest in a quality launcher.
( Have students wear goggles during the launch.
( The clay on the materials list is for use during the stability testing.
( When using spray paint, have students wear goggles and disposable
gloves.
( Always pull the launch string away from the viewing area. This prevents the
launch pad from being pulled towards your audience, in case of a
malfunction.
( Do not discourage choices about rocket designs that may not work. Let the
students learn this on their own.
Procedures
Introduction
1. Ask students to share what they know about how rockets are built.
2. Discuss with students how, in the US, rockets are built by several companies.
3. Inform the class that they are to start their own rocket building company.
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan by U.S. Space & Rocket Center
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Soda Bottle Rocket Lesson
Main Lesson
1. Put students in heterogeneous groups of three or four.
2. Distribute a Corporation Packet to each group.
3. Review the packet with the class by reading over the Project X Rocket Plan sheet.
4. Answer any questions the students have.
5. Let them start.
6. Remind the students that they must pay for the “Rocket Fuel” in advance, as well as
launch port fees.
Evaluation
1. Groups should work cooperatively to complete all the components of the project. If
they finish within budget, they have successfully completed the project.
Conclusion
1. On flight day, have students fill out the first line of their flight day log with their own
rocket’s information.
2. Each group should weigh its rocket and record this on the first line of their log.
3. Have each group share their information so each group can record the data on the
remaining lines.
4. Launch the rockets! Remember to wear eye protection.
5. Measure the height of each launch using the altitude finder.
6. Record the results of each launch.
7. Have students graph the height of each launch versus the weight of each rocket to see
if there is any correlation. (Or the average height of the launches versus the weight of
each rocket.)
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan by U.S. Space & Rocket Center
www.mrgsworld.com
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Soda Bottle Rocket Lesson
Expansions/Extensions
( Students can experiment with the amount of water used at launch time.
( Students can build their own altitude finders.
( Students can do multiple launches and average their launch heights
together.
( Students can compare the results of using traditional rocket parts (such as
nose cone and fins) with not using traditional rocket parts.
( Students can compare the results of using different size bottles.
Resources
http://www.cse.ucsc.edu/~karplus/abe/soda-bottle-rocket.pdf - Plans to make your own bottle
rocket launcher.
http://adc.gsfc.nasa.gov/adc/education/space_ex/2liter.html - Detailed bottle rocket plan.
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/pagrosse/h2orocketbottlemods.htm - Site
describing some modifications that can be made for a better soda bottle rocket.
http://www.physicscentral.com/lou/lou-01-19.html – How soda bottle rockets work.
http://spacelink.nasa.gov/Instructional.Materials/NASA.Educational.Products/Rockets/.index.
html – Great NASA link to a PDF on rockets.
http://www.grc.nasa.gov/WWW/K-12/bottlerocket/ - Link to a bottle rocket simulator.
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan by U.S. Space & Rocket Center
www.mrgsworld.com
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
For more info visit www.mrgsworld.com
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3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
Project X Rocket Plan
Phase I
1. Understand project requirements and expectations.
2. Complete journal cover with company logo.
3. Complete certification of assumed name in your journal packet.
4. On rocket checklist, fill in names.
5. Draw a rough sketch of your rocket.
6. Complete budget projection sheet.
7. Write an abstract describing your rocket and its purpose.
Phase II
1. Start rocket construction. EVERYONE on your team should be
busy. Checks have to be written to purchase items. Someone
needs to keep up with the balance sheet. Nose cone, fin
construction, and bottle construction can take place at the
same time.
2. Complete the measurement sheet located in your journal
packet.
Phase III
1. Make a scale drawing of rocket. You only need the complete
measurement sheet and grid paper to complete this.
2. Make a silhouette.
3. Find and mark center of mass. (Stability test)
4. Find and mark center of pressure. (Stability test)
5. Make any modeling corrections.
Launch
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
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3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
State of
_____________
(Fill in the state that you live in.)
Certificate of
Assumed Name
All information on this form is public information.
Please type or print legibly in black ink.
Project Number _______
1. State the exact name assumed under which the business is or will be conducted:
_______________________________________________________________
2. List the name and title of all persons conducting business under the above assumed
name:
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Today's Date: _____________, _________
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
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3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
Project X Rocket Checklist
Phase 1
Project journal cover with logo
Designed by:
Phase 1
Rocket design (Rough Sketch)
(Entire group should be involved.)
Facilitator:
Phase 1
Budget projection sheet
Written by:
Phase 1
Abstract
Written by:
Phase 2-3
Checks and balance sheet
(Write checks, balance checkbook.)
Two people needed: 1.
2.
Phase 2
Bottle rocket construction
Construction supervised by:
Phase 2
Nose cone construction
(Do not attach until the end of phase 2.)
Constructed by:
Phase 2
Fin construction
Constructed by:
Phase 2
Complete measurement sheet
Fins measured by:
Nose cone measured by:
Bottle measured by:
Phase 3
Scale drawing
(Use grid paper)
Drawing completed by:
Phase 3
Silhouette
Cut out by:
Phase 3
Stability test
Conducted by:
Phase 3
Swing test
Conducted by:
Phase 3
Any modeling revisions
Launch
Rocket result sheet
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
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3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
Project X Rocket Rough Sketch
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
www.mrgsworld.com
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3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
Project X Rocket Budget Projection
Record all expenses your company expects to incur below.
You should include design, construction and launch costs.
Item
Quantity
Total Cost
Projected Total Cost:
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
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3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
Project X Abstract
Your abstract should include the following information:
( Positive traits about your company that show that you
are committed to building a quality rocket.
( The purpose of your rocket.
( A brief description of your rocket.
( The projected cost for building your rocket.
( A projected timeline for finishing your rocket.
( A statement promising to deliver what you are
describing.
( Your abstract should be typed, double spaced, using
Arial font size 14. Use the space below to organize your
thoughts.
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
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3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
Project X Rocket Materials and Price List
The following is your materials and price list. Your team has a budget of
$1,000,000. Use money wisely and keep accurate records of all expenditures. Make
sure your NASA consultant has told you if any of the items on the list are not available.
Once you know the items are in stock, you are ready to start. If you use any items not
on the list, the NASA consultant will approve the items. (You will not be charged a fee
for ASKING about these items.) The NASA consultant will decide how much to charge
for any items not on the list. A project delay penalty fee will be assessed for not working
cooperatively or not staying focused. This penalty fee could be as high as $300,000. If
your money runs out, you will be operating in the "red" and this will count against your
team. Use your time and money wisely, and work together as a team! Good luck!
Supplier
Clyde's Bottle Supply
Stanley's Paper Products
Stuck on You Inc.
Strings and Things
Stuff of the Earth
Tony's Paint and Color
Plastic Sheet Goods
Aqua Rocket Fuel Co.
NASA Launch Port
NASA Consultation
Item
Market Price
Small plastic bottle (20 oz)
$200,000
Large plastic bottle (2 L)
$400,000
Cardboard - large sheet
$25,000
Cardboard - small sheet
$15,000
Poster board - large sheet
$40,000
Poster board - small sheet
$25,000
Fin board - 1 sheet
$30,000
Construction paper - 1 sheet
$10,000
Duct tape - 12"
$60,000
Masking tape - 12"
$50,000
Use of hot glue - 5 minutes
$30,000
Use of regular glue - per class
$40,000
String - 60 cm
$10,000
Yarn - 60 cm
$15,000
Modeling Clay
$10,000
Spray paint - per object
$40,000
Use of markers - per class
$50,000
1 plastic bag
$300
Half a bottle
$5,000
Launch
$100,000
Questions
$3,000
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
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3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
Project X Rocket Checking Account Balance Sheet
(Page 1)
Company Name: __________________________________________
(Be sure to record every purchase and subtract the purchases from your balance.)
Check
Number
Date
To
Amount
Balance
STARTING BALANCE: $1,000,000
Balance to be transferred to page 2:
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
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3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
Project X Rocket Checking Account Balance Sheet
(Page 2)
Company Name: __________________________________________
(Be sure to record every purchase and subtract the purchases from your balance.)
Check
Number
Date
To
Amount
Balance
Balance from page 1:
Final Balance:
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
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3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
101
2-432/845
244
Date: _______________
Pay to the order of ___________________________________________________
$ _____________
_________________________________________________________________________ Dollars
For ____________________________
_______________________________________________
012210432 5103394434 0101
102
2-432/845
244
Date: _______________
Pay to the order of ___________________________________________________
$ _____________
_________________________________________________________________________ Dollars
For ____________________________
_______________________________________________
012210432 5103394434 0102
103
2-432/845
244
Date: _______________
Pay to the order of ___________________________________________________
$ _____________
_________________________________________________________________________ Dollars
For ____________________________
_______________________________________________
012210432 5103394434 0103
104
2-432/845
244
Date: _______________
Pay to the order of ___________________________________________________
$ _____________
_________________________________________________________________________ Dollars
For ____________________________
_______________________________________________
012210432 5103394434 0104
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
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3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
105
2-432/845
244
Date: _______________
Pay to the order of ___________________________________________________
$ _____________
_________________________________________________________________________ Dollars
For ____________________________
_______________________________________________
012210432 5103394434 0105
106
2-432/845
244
Date: _______________
Pay to the order of ___________________________________________________
$ _____________
_________________________________________________________________________ Dollars
For ____________________________
_______________________________________________
012210432 5103394434 0106
107
2-432/845
244
Date: _______________
Pay to the order of ___________________________________________________
$ _____________
_________________________________________________________________________ Dollars
For ____________________________
_______________________________________________
012210432 5103394434 0107
108
2-432/845
244
Date: _______________
Pay to the order of ___________________________________________________
$ _____________
_________________________________________________________________________ Dollars
For ____________________________
_______________________________________________
012210432 5103394434 0108
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
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3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
109
2-432/845
244
Date: _______________
Pay to the order of ___________________________________________________
$ _____________
_________________________________________________________________________ Dollars
For ____________________________
_______________________________________________
012210432 5103394434 0109
110
2-432/845
244
Date: _______________
Pay to the order of ___________________________________________________
$ _____________
_________________________________________________________________________ Dollars
For ____________________________
_______________________________________________
012210432 5103394434 0110
111
2-432/845
244
Date: _______________
Pay to the order of ___________________________________________________
$ _____________
_________________________________________________________________________ Dollars
For ____________________________
_______________________________________________
012210432 5103394434 0111
112
2-432/845
244
Date: _______________
Pay to the order of ___________________________________________________
$ _____________
_________________________________________________________________________ Dollars
For ____________________________
_______________________________________________
012210432 5103394434 0112
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
www.mrgsworld.com
- 34 -
3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
Project X Rocket Measurements
Project No. __________
Date _______________
Company Name: ___________________________________________
Use metric measurements to measure and record the data in the blanks
below. Be sure to accurately measure all objects that are constant (such
as the bottles) and those you will control (like the size of the fins).
Object
Bottle
Neck of bottle
Nose cone
Fin
Length
Width
Circumference (π x d)
Using the supplied grid sheet, draw a side, top, and bottom view of your rocket,
to scale (1 square = 2 cm), based on the measurements recorded above.
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
www.mrgsworld.com
- 35 -
3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
Project X Rocket Scale Drawing
(1 square = 2 cm)
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
www.mrgsworld.com
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3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
Project X Rocket Stability Test
A rocket that flies straight through the air is said to be a stable rocket. A rocket
that veers off course or tumbles wildly is said to be an unstable rocket. The difference
between the flight of a stable and unstable rocket depends upon its design. All rockets
have two distinct "centers." The first is the center of mass. This is a point about which
the rocket balances. If you could place a ruler edge under this point, the rocket would
balance horizontally like a seesaw. What this means is that half of the mass of the
rocket is on one side of the ruler edge and half is on the other. Center of mass is
important to a rocket's design because if a rocket is unstable, the rocket will tumble
about this center.
The other center in a rocket is the center of pressure. This is a point where half of
the surface area of a rocket is on one side and half is on the other. The center of
pressure differs from center of mass in that its location is not affected by the placement
of payloads in the rocket. This is just a point based on the surface of the rocket, not
what is inside. During flight, the pressure of air rushing past the rocket will balance half
on one side of this point and half on the other. You can determine the center of pressure
by cutting out an exact silhouette of the rocket from cardboard and balancing it on a
ruler edge.
The positioning of the center of mass and the center of pressure on a rocket is
critical to its stability. The center of mass should be towards the rocket's nose and the
center of pressure should be towards the rocket's tail for the rocket to fly straight. That is
because the lower end of the rocket (starting with the center of mass and going
downward) has more surface area than the upper end (starting with the center of mass
and going upward). When the rocket flies, more air pressure exists on the lower end of
the rocket than on the upper end. Air pressure will keep the lower end down and the
upper end up. If the center of mass and the center of pressure are in the same place,
neither end of the rocket will point upward. The rocket will be unstable and tumble.
Stability Determination Instructions
1. Tie a string loop around the middle of your rocket. Tie a second string to the first
so that you can pick it up. Slide the string loop to a position where the rocket
balances. You may have to temporarily tape the nose cone in place to keep it
from falling off.
2. Draw a straight line across the scale diagram of the rocket you made earlier to
show where the string's position is. Mark the middle of the line with a dot. This is
the rocket's center of mass.
3. Lay your rocket on a piece of cardboard. Carefully trace the rocket on the
cardboard and cut it out.
4. Lay the cardboard silhouette you just cut out on the ruler and balance it.
5. Draw a straight line across the diagram of your rocket where the ruler is. Mark
the middle of this line with a dot. This is the center of pressure of the rocket.
(See diagrams on the top of the next page for further explanation.)
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
www.mrgsworld.com
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3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
Center of Mass Test
Center of Pressure
Test
If your center of mass is in front of the center of pressure, your rocket should be
stable. Proceed to the swing test. If the two centers are next to or on top of each other,
add more clay to the nosecone of the rocket. This will move the center of mass forward.
Repeat steps 2 and 3 and then proceed to the swing test.
Swing Test:
1. Tape the string loop you tied around your rocket in the previous set of instructions so
that it does not slip.
2. While standing in an open place, slowly begin swinging your rocket in a circle. If the
rocket points in the direction you are swinging it, the rocket is stable. If not, add more
clay to the rocket nose cone or replace the rocket fins with larger ones. Repeat the
stability determination instructions and then repeat the swing test.
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
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- 38 -
3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
Project X Rocket Flight Day Log
If you do more than one launch, you must average the results.
Team Name
Project
Number
Total
Rocket
Length
Rocket
Weight
Launch Height
1st
2nd
3rd
Height
Average
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
www.mrgsworld.com
- 39 -
3, 2, 1... Lift Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Corporation Packet
Project X Rocket
Height of launch vs. Weight Graph
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Original Plan Supplied by US Space Academy, Created by NASA
www.mrgsworld.com
- 40 -
3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Model Rocketry
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
For more info visit www.mrgsworld.com
- 41 -
3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Model Rocketry
Model Rocketry
Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
I did not include a specific lesson on using model rocketry. I have only used it as part
of the previous lesson, replacing the soda bottle rocket. You can replace the materials on the
Materials and Price List with the parts of the model rockets. An Estes Viking class model
rocket is great for this because of the multiple fin arrangements.
Model rocketry can be used for many other lesson ideas. The value of using them is
in the excitement they generate among students. All kinds of projects can be developed
using model rockets.
( Have students write stories about their rocket landing in a strange place.
( Have students compare different model rocket styles.
( Have students compare the different engine types.
( Have students research how model rockets work.
( All of Newton’s laws of motion can be explored using model rocketry.
( Discuss the design of different model rockets.
( Plot trajectories and try to hit targets.
Resources
http://www.apogeerockets.com/education/Teaching_Tips.asp - Model rocketry educational
site from Apogee rocket kits.
http://www.estesrockets.com/ - Lots of model rocketry info from Estes Rockets.
http://www.grc.nasa.gov/WWW/K-12/aeroact.htm - Aerospace Activities and Lesson by
NASA.
http://www.enc.org/resources/records/0,1240,027573,00.shtm – Beginner’s guide to model
rocketry.
http://www.enc.org/resources/records/0,1240,002746,00.shtm – Teacher’s guide to
experimenting with rocketry.
http://www.sciencenetlinks.com/lessons.cfm?DocID=145 – Another site on model rocketry.
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
www.mrgsworld.com
- 42 -
3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Troubleshooting and Other Ideas
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
For more info visit www.mrgsworld.com
- 43 -
3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Troubleshooting & Other Ideas
Troubleshooting
With every new lesson we try, we always come across problems. Below are some
issues I have run across when trying to implement this lesson.
( If you do not have any budget to work with, have students bring in
materials from home or purchase rocket kits. The kits are relatively
inexpensive.
( If there is no link to your current curriculum for this activity, do this
lesson as a “Space Club” after school. It is also good as a one or
two-week summer camp.
( If you do not have a safe place to launch your rockets, celebrate a
rocketry day at a local baseball field or other large area. Try to get
several schools in your area to participate.
( If you teach a specialized class with special needs students, you
can assist students in making the rockets.
( Remember to always wear eye protection when working with
projectiles. It is a hard lesson to learn if you do not take proper
precautionary measures.
Other Ideas
There are so many ways to expand or extend this type of project. Here are just a few
more ideas:
( Have students build model rockets from scratch. No kits allowed.
( Have students research different NASA mission and build scale
models of the rockets used for each mission. Have them discuss
the reason behind the choice of the rocket used.
( Map out on a blacktop the lengths of actual rockets used on NASA
missions.
( Read the book “Rocket Boys” by Homer Hickam while working on
model rockets. Watch the movie “October Sky” to compare and
contrast it to the book.
( Scan the logos for each team’s company and put them on that
team’s checks. You can also add the company name. (Example on
next page.)
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Plans Inspired by US Space Academy
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Troubleshooting & Other Ideas
101
Eagles #1 Fan
2-432/845
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Date: _______________
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Eagles #1 Fan
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Date: _______________
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For ____________________________
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Eagles #1 Fan
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Date: _______________
Pay to the order of ___________________________________________________
$ _____________
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For ____________________________
_______________________________________________
012210432 5103394434 0103
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Eagles #1 Fan
2-432/845
244
Date: _______________
Pay to the order of ___________________________________________________
$ _____________
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For ____________________________
_______________________________________________
012210432 5103394434 0104
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Plans Inspired by US Space Academy
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- 45 -
3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Acknowledgments
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo
For more info visit www.mrgsworld.com
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Acknowledgments
Acknowledgments
We are all just a sum of our experiences. Most of this project was initially given to me
at a U.S. Space Camp experience for teachers funded by Boeing. But everyone listed here
has helped shape this project to what you are holding in your hand.
( Julie Ferriss and Dan Oates from the U.S. Space &
Rocket Center’s Education Staff for several of the
original ideas that became this project.
( Homer Hickam for inspiring me to be a “Rocket Boy.”
( John Steczak, Susan Howe, and Terry Haskell from
Rose Tree Media School District in Pennsylvania for
being a great team to work with and tolerating my
complex ideas.
( Mary Ellen Goldfarb, my principal, for encouraging me to
implement my ideas and letting me make messes in our
building.
( Kathy Cook, library technician extraordinaire, for making
sure I always dot my i’s and cross my t’s.
( NASA, for supplying teachers with tons of free resources.
( Boeing, for sending me to space camp… twice!
( Christina McCarthy, my sister, for always pushing me to
reach further.
Edited and Compiled by Anthony Grisillo, Plans Inspired by US Space Academy
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3,2,1… Lift-Off! Using Rocketry to Integrate Curriculum
Evaluation and Prize Drawing
Evaluation Form
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