I will be teaching 1st class this year, so I have chosen that class level as a focus to teach about rockets. I would begin by sparking their curiosity with a brief introduction to space and rockets: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Lti6a_YYQl0&pp=ygURcm9ja2V0cyBmb3Iga2lkcyA%3D . Then, we would move to a hands-on activity where the students could create their own paper rockets. I’d guide them through cutting, folding, and decorating their rockets, explaining how real rockets are designed and launched. I would also show the kids NASA’s kids website to encourage them to build or create at home https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/pop-rocket/en/.
Next, we would take our rockets outside to launch them using a simple straw or balloon method. I would encourage the students to observe the distance their rockets travel and discuss why some rockets go farther than others.
To reinforce learning, I’d use interactive online games where they can design and “launch” virtual rockets, linking these activities back to the physical experience. https://www.nasa.gov/specials/kidsclub/games/rocket-builder/index.html
I look forward to using this lesson outline this school year with my students! I would also love to set up a buddy system, where my class could work in pairs with an older class to improve their designs and models.