For Module 5, I decided to focus on the Balloon Rockets activity, which is perfect for young students in first class. This activity is simple, fun, and an excellent way to introduce basic concepts of movement and air pressure in a way that’s easy for young students.
In my class, I would gather the children and talk about rockets. We’d discuss how rockets fly by pushing out air or gas, just like how a balloon flies when we let it go. I’d use simple language and lots of visuals to make sure everyone understands.
After our discussion, we would make our own balloon rockets! The children would work in pairs to tape a straw onto a balloon and thread the straw onto a piece of string stretched between two points in the classroom. Once they blow up the balloon, they’d hold it tight and get ready for the big moment—letting go to see how far the balloon rocket flies along the string!
Each child would have a turn to launch their balloon rocket, and we’d measure how far it travels. We would talk about what makes the balloon go further or not as far, using words like “more air” and “less air” to describe what’s happening.
I’d also get the children to decorate their balloons like real rockets, adding a bit of creative fun to the lesson. This activity would not only teach them about movement and air pressure but also get them excited about space and science in a way that’s easy to understand and full of hands-on fun.