Rockets – 2nd class
In the past I have only taught senior classes and every year without fail we have made baking soda rockets with vinegar and baking soda. It has always been an memorable lesson – and one that is always mentioned in their end of year lesson highlights.
This year I am moving to 2nd class. I would indeed try the baking soda rockets but I might start with the mouse rockets – how does it travel what are the forces at play? The we could move onto the vitamin tablet rockets and baking soda rockets discussing that a chemical reaction takes place.
As I teach in a school in Co. Mayo we are very lucky lucky to have Dr. Norah Patten on our door step. I would integrate her ask me anything into the lesson to get children thinking about the life of an astronaut and the training in which they have to undergo. https://youtu.be/lKmNVNCbORY?si=eXxPO46O0-lgiNpu
In our school library we also have Norah’s book Shooting for the Stars which we would read as a whole class. We would try to imagine what it would be like to be an astronaut in space. We would watch Chris Hadfield videos – how to brush your teeth in space. https://youtu.be/3bCoGC532p8?si=l0UtywH60cV6kIfQ
In Drama & Art we would use Shaun Tan’s creations Creature to discuss wither Aliens & other life forms might exist in space, through Hot seating and conscious Alley. Children could draw themselves as astronaut exploring space with or without their new found friends.