About this resource
Using the materials provided, see if you can make a straw rocket using the materials provided and make it travel as far as possible using one breath of air. Students have five trials with adjustments before the final distance is measured in the final trial. Students can work alone or in pairs. All work should be recorded in your science journal. Students should make a prediction about how far the rocket will travel. After making your prediction, draw your concept on a piece of paper. Create your rocket and then test it, record the distance traveled for each trial, making adjustments in between.
Modifications for All Learners: Students can also use the computer to draw and design their prototypes.
Curriculum & Standards
Related General Curriculum / Common Core Area
Science/Math/Technology
Related Curriculum / Common Core Standard
AASL Main Standard(s): III. COLLABORATE Work effectively with others to broaden perspectives and work toward common goals. A. Think - Learners identify collaborative opportunities by: 2. Developing new understandings through engagement in a learning group. 3. Deciding to solve problems informed by group interaction.
V. EXPLORE Discover and innovate in a growth mindset developed through experience and reflection. B. Create - Learners construct new knowledge by: 1. Problem solving through cycles of design, implementation, and reflection. 2. Persisting through self-directed pursuits by tinkering and making
Related STEM Area: Engineering and design
NGSS Main Related Engineering Design Standard:
MS-ETS1-4. Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process such that an optimal design can be achieved.
What students will do
- I will create a rocket prototype and test it.
- I will redesign my rocket to travel further.
- I will work with a partner to successfully design a rocket.
- I will think critically about my rocket and best design options.
I can create a rocket prototype and test it.
I can redesign my rocket to travel further.
I can work with a partner to successfully design a rocket.
I can think critically about my rocket and best design options.
Resources Needed
Science journal, 1 straw, 1 piece of printer paper, 6 inches of tape, scissors
How learning is assessed
- I created a rocket prototype and tested it.
- I redesigned my rocket to travel further.
- I worked with a partner to successfully design a rocket.
- I thought critically about my rocket and best design options.