Reply To: Module 5 – Rockets & Alien Chemistry

#211823
Profile photo ofmarymc21@gmail.comMary McNamara
Participant

    For this reflective piece, I have chosen to focus on teaching a lesson about rockets, inspired by the activities and strategies outlined in the module, and to integrate this into our class plan for Space Week.
    During Space Week, I would like to introduce a multi-faceted lesson about rockets that engages my 5-6 year old pupils through a combination of storytelling, hands-on activities, and creative expression. The goal is to spark curiosity, encourage problem-solving, and foster a love for learning about space and engineering.
    1. Storytime and Discussion: We will begin with a storytime session, reading a picture book about space travel and rockets. A book like “Peigí’s Adventures in Space” by Shane Bergin and Declan Fahie would be a perfect starting off point (it was recently sent free to many primary schools from UCD – https://www.peigisadventures.com/). It is child friendly and introduces the concept of rockets and space through the eyes of a friendly Red Setter.
    Discussion Questions:
    -What do rockets do?
    -How do you think rockets work?
    -Why do we need rockets?
    2. Building and Testing Model Rockets: Next, we would move on to a hands-on activity where pupils build their own simple model rockets using craft supplies like cardboard rolls, paper, glue, and markers. This would be an open-ended task where pupils could design their rockets in various ways, just like the characters in Peigí’s story, allowing them to use their creativity.
    Steps:
    -Demonstrate how to create a basic rocket structure.
    -Encourage pupils to decorate and customise their rockets.
    -Once the rockets are built, we will go outside to test them using a simple launching mechanism, like blowing air through a straw to propel paper rockets.
    3. Exploring Numbers and Measurements: To integrate numeracy skills, we could measure the distance each rocket travels and record the results. Pupils will be encouraged to compare the distances and discuss what factors might have influenced the outcomes.
    Questions for Reflection:
    -Which rocket travelled the farthest? Why do you think that happened?
    -How can we make our rockets go further next time?
    -Can you count the steps from the launch point to where your rocket landed?
    This rocket lesson integrates multiple learning modalities, from auditory (storytime) to kinesthetic (building and launching rockets) to visual (drawing and measuring). By offering varied activities, I can cater to the diverse needs and learning styles of my pupils.
    One significant change I am making is the inclusion of more open-ended tasks that encourage exploration and problem-solving. The rocket-building activity, in particular, allows pupils to experiment and learn through trial and error, fostering a growth mindset.
    Additionally, this lesson emphasises collaboration and communication. Pupils will work together during the building process, discuss their results, and share their reflections, building their social and language skills in the context of a fun and engaging topic. This approach not only makes learning about rockets and space exciting but also helps pupils develop critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork skills, laying a strong foundation for their future learning experiences.

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