In first class we would create our very own rockets using household materials. We will begin by discussing what we think the key components to rockets are on the whiteboard using a mind map. Children will use think, pair, share to discuss their ideas in their table groups for a few minutes.
We will then investigate through pictures what real life rockets look like and compare their components to our mind map checking if we have missed anything. Then the teacher will ask the children how they think they could design a rocket. The teacher will give out some blank sheets and the children will come up with their very own rocket design. They will compare their ideas with their peers.
There will be a whole class discussion about what materials we could use to create our rocket ships.
The teacher will show the students the video of the rocket mice on YouTube to give them some insight into how we may make the rockets blast off to ensure their design aligns and will work (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GUKCT2L3DjA&t=14s)
In the next SESE lesson, the students will have the materials that they need to build their rocket. They will each have a piece of card that can fold into a cone shape (linking with 3D shapes lesson), some markers, feathers & glitter, scissors, tape/glue, and spare pieces of paper if they wish to add some wings to their design. Once the children have finished building their rockets, they will get a chance to make them blast off using different containers to investigate how high they can shoot their rocket and what causes this different in height.
The lesson will conclude with a whole class discussion and each table getting a chance to present their finished deign to the class. We will discuss their findings and the children will give 2 stars and a wish if they were to do the design again.