
Grades 6-8 | 8 (45 min) Classes
In this lesson, students will answer the question, “How does a parachute’s design affect the speed of descent of a model rocket?” The students will read a story about humans living on Mars in the year 2323. They must design a way to allow a rocket from Earth to land safely on their planet, Estesonia, as the rocket is carrying fragile, photovoltaic cells, their alternate energy source.
Students will hypothesize how the design of a parachute affects the speed of descent of a model rocket. After a review of different types of recovery systems, students will practice what they learned and build and test a parachute prototype. After analyzing the data, students will apply what they have learned to build the Green Eggs Rocket and plan the parachute for their flight. They will state a hypothesis and identify the independent and dependent variables.
After the flight, the students will combine their data into a class data chart to allow better analysis. They will compare the results and determine the answer to the essential question, “How does a parachute’s design affect the speed of descent of a model rocket?”
The student’s final product will be to complete a Claim-Evidence-Reasoning writing piece supporting their final conclusions. A traditional multiple-choice quiz is included for use if desired.
Standards
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
MS-PS2.1
Apply Newton’s Third Law to design a solution to a problem involving the motion of two colliding objects.
MS-ETS 1-1
Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relevant scientific principles and potential impacts on people and the natural environment that may limit possible solutions.
MS-ETS 1-2
Evaluate competing design solutions based on jointly developed and agreed-upon design criteria using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
MS-ETS 1-3
Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions to identify the best characteristics of each that can be combined into a new solution to better meet the criteria for success.
MS-ETS 1-4
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.
Materials Needed
Each Student Needs:
- Student Portfolio
- Safety Goggles
- Tape
- Scissors
- Plastic Grocery Bag
- Ruler
- String/ Dental Floss (about 4 feet)
- Toothpick
- Market/Highlighter or Small Toy
The Class Needs:
- Rocket Recovery Slide Presentation
- Stopwatch
- Meter Sticks
- Green Eggs Bulk Pack
- C11-3 Engines
- Lifetime Launch System
- Pocket Lab
- Glue
- Hobby Knife
- Camera (optional)
Unit Plan Featured Products
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Lifetime Launch System
Regular price $79.99Regular priceUnit price per$79.99Sale price $79.99Sold out -
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Green Eggs Classroom Kit
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C11-3 Engine Bulk Pack
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Green Eggs™ Bulk Pack (12 pk)
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Building Supplies
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Cutting Mat
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Disposable Hobby Knife
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Insta Cure Super Thin Glue (1-3 Seconds)
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Carpenter's Wood Glue
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