Rocket Ratios - Unit Plan

Students will answer the question “How are ratios and proportions used when creating scale models of rockets?” They will explore the concept of proportional figures by making drawings of model rockets with different scale factors. Students will use ratios to compare components of the actual Blue Origin New Shepard with the model rocket version. For the assessment, students will demonstrate their understanding of scales and ratios by creating a scale drawing of the Earth, Moon, and Sun to compare their sizes and distances from each other.

Common Core Math Standards

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.6.RP.A.1

Understand the concept of a ratio and use ratio language to describe a ratio relationship between two quantities.

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.6.RP.A.3

Use ratio and rate reasoning to solve real-world and mathematical problems

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.7.RP.A.2.A

Decide whether two quantities are in a proportional relationship, e.g., by testing for equivalent ratios in a table or graphing on a coordinate plane and observing whether the graph is a straight line through the origin.

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.7.G.A.1

Solve problems involving scale drawings of geometric figures, including computing actual lengths and areas from a scale drawing, and reproducing a scale drawing at a different scale.

Next Generation Science Standards

SEPs

• Developing and using models
• Using mathematics and computational thinking
• Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information

CCCs

• Scale, proportion, and quantity
• Systems and system models

Common Core ELA Standards

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.6-8.3

Follow precisely a multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks.

Each Student Needs:

• Student Portfolio
• Safety Goggles
• Graph Paper
• Ruler
• Tape Measure

The Class Needs:

• Slide Presentations
• Blue Origin New Shepard Model Rocket
• C6-3 Engines
• Recovery Wadding
• Lifetime Launch System
• Mini AltiTrak
• Camera (optional)