Today as part of my STEAM effort with the girls' home we designed and launched balloon rockets. It was a 'BLAST'!
With the older group, I reinforced through drawing and discussion force, motion, thrust, and friction. We reviewed the scientific method and filled out a worksheet that encouraged asking questions and making predictions about what they thought would happen.
Using this framework as a guide, we wondered aloud:
We practiced calculating velocity based on how far the rocket traveled and how long it took.
With the older group, I reinforced through drawing and discussion force, motion, thrust, and friction. We reviewed the scientific method and filled out a worksheet that encouraged asking questions and making predictions about what they thought would happen.
Using this framework as a guide, we wondered aloud:
- Will changing the shape of the balloon make the rocket travel faster?
- Will adding more air affect how far the rocket travels?
- What will happen if we raise the incline of the string?
We practiced calculating velocity based on how far the rocket traveled and how long it took.
I especially liked when we added cargo on top (a rupee coin inside half a ping pong ball) and predicted at what point along the way it would fall out. It actually made it all the way to the end of the line.
In the end we found that the more air in the balloon, the faster it goes. It also matters if the straw is straight and if it's going with or against the breeze coming through the window.
And everyone enjoyed the leftover balloons...
And everyone enjoyed the leftover balloons...
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