My student are curious, hard working eight graders. This year their critical thinking skills are blossoming. They truly enjoy applying the physical science concepts we learn in unique ways, to investigate the natural world. They have deep and thoughtful discussions and respect the voices of others.
I would love to give them the opportunity to put their curiosity to good use with this Rocketry unit!
By combining a social emotional activity with some good old fashioned science with a huge COOL factor, I hope to send these students off to high school with the attitude that they really can achieve anything they put their heart into.
They have worked incredibly hard this year. I truly hope I can make this experience happen for them!
My Project
I hope this Rocketry Unit will make a difference in my students lives as they transition into high school. Not only will it focus on STEAM criteria, but there will also be a social emotional component focused on perseverance and grit.
I am looking for rocket kits and engines which will cover all necessary supplies for 40 student groups.
The unit will be the culmination of our year of physical science together!
First, students will view the movie “October Sky” (about a disadvantaged group of boys who overcame many challenges to build a rocket and win the state science fair). Students will reflect on times they have displayed perseverance and/or GRIT in the past and when they might need to in the future. Prior to building, students will be expected to design an experiment with other “engineering teams” using the concepts that we have learned in class. They can also employ the A in STEAM by decorating their rockets to their liking. On launch day, students will gather data and take a variety of measurements to analyze and discuss the flight results.
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