Rocket Lab Workshop

Our most popular workshop, this program encourages students to put their knowledge of rocketry and aerodynamics to use. Working in small teams, students will put their heads and hands together to design, build, and launch a model rocket. Success will depend on cooperative teamwork and strategy: what kind of fins will work best? How big should the nose cone be? How long should its body be? What kind of vibes will result from our rocket’s name?

After the rockets are built, we will find their mass, launch them with Alka-Seltzer and water, and chart our data on our giant Smart Board spreadsheet. If desired, students can take the rockets back to school with them and we can email the data along for further discussion or experimentation. Countdown to fun…

Curricular Links:
Grade 4: Building Devices/Vehicles that Move
Grade 5: Classroom Chemistry
Grade 6: Air and Aerodynamics
Grade 9: Matter and Chemical Change, Space Exploration

Learner Outcomes:
SpacePort closely matches its programs to Alberta Learning’s Programs of Study for elementary and junior high grades. We are always happy to fax or email a detailed outline of how our programs match Specific Learner Expectations (SLEs) and General Learner Expectations (GLEs) as established by Alberta Learning. Please call or email our Educational Program Director for further information.

Cool and relevant space facts:
Did you know that about 75 rockets launch into space every year? That’s one every five days!

All content © 2004 Calgary SpacePort