You’ll notice that in the summer months many of our “Summer Fun” activities are STEM in nature. Summer is a great time to experiment, while keeping learning light and fun. Students can learn amazing things in the summer (nature is an obvious way to go here). And outside is a good place to practice some of those science experiments that you didn’t get to during the regular year. With all of this in mind, here is another Design Squad Challenge: Launch It!
This design challenge involves building an air-powered rocket that can hit a distant target.
In this challenge, kids follow the engineering design process to:
(1) design and build a rocket from a straw;
(2) launch their rocket using a balloon;
(3) improve their rocket based on testing results; and
(4) try to consistently hit a target with their rockets.
We love these Design Squad Challenges from NASA. They encourage thinking, finding and implementing solutions, and retesting — the way things work (or should) in the “real” world.
The 4-page download includes Leader Notes so that you will have everything you need to help those that get stuck, as well as suggestions for increasing the challenge for those who find it too easy.
The challenge uses simple materials you should have available at home.
Perfect for a Summer Fun Activity and a great way to keep ’em learning!
Free Resource
Additional Resources
NASA Rockets Educator Guide ~ Free
Bump it up a notch with these 14 rocket activities.
Summer Fun Activity: Make a Balloon Rocket
Simple … from ScienceBob.com.
Rockets, Missiles, and Spacecraft {Free eBook}
Nice for background information.
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