Skip to product information
1 of 1

Slippery Slope - Unit Plan

Slippery Slope - Unit Plan

View full details

Grades 6-8 | 10 (45 min) Classes

In this unit students will answer the question: How is slope represented in a model rocket launch?

Students will learn about the different types of slope and practice calculation methods to find slope from a graph. Students will then analyze launch data to identify and calculate where a rocket has a positive, negative and/or neutral slope on its flight path.

For their final assessment students will be creating a visual of the four types of slope that shows how slope is seen on a model rocket’s flight path.

Standards

Common Core Standards - Math

GRADE 7

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

Recognize and represent proportional relationships between quantities.

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

Decide whether two quantities are in a proportional relationship.

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

Identify the constant of proportionality (unit rate) in tables, graphs, equations, diagrams, and verbal descriptions of proportional relationships. 

GRADE 8

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.8.F.A.2

Compare properties of two functions each represented in a different way (algebraically, graphically, numerically in tables, or by verbal descriptions).

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.8.F.A.3

Interpret the equation y = mx + b as defining a linear function, whose graph is a straight line; give examples of functions that are not linear.

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.8.F.B.5

Describe qualitatively the functional relationship between two quantities by analyzing a graph (e.g., where the function is increasing or decreasing, linear or nonlinear). Sketch a graph that exhibits the qualitative features of a function that has been described verbally.

High School

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSF.IF.B.4

For a function that models a relationship between two quantities, interpret key features of graphs and tables in terms of the quantities, and sketch graphs showing key features given a verbal description of the relationship

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSS.ID.C.7

Interpret the slope (rate of change) and the intercept (constant term) of a linear model in the context of the data.

Materials Needed

Unit Plan Products

Building Supplies

Live, Online Training and 1:1 Support!

Estes Education has been a leader in STEM education for over 60 years. We know that STEM is a vital interdisciplinary topic that requires hands-on and inclusive learning. Explore these supporting materials to take learning to new heights!

Should you have need, you can meet with a member of Education team for FREE, 1:1 online support to learn rocketry basics, how to apply our curriculum, and discover unique teaching strategies. Our team is eager to answer your questions!

Get Support Now!

Learn About Model Rocket Safety!

Not sure how to safely launch a rocket with your group? Head over to our dedicated Safety instructions page for videos, support, and more!

How to Fly Safely!