Rocketry programmes at school use the construction, preparation, flight and recovery of model rockets as the motivation for students to learn about space exploration, the laws of motion, gravitational theory, forces acting on objects in flight, predicting flight patterns (motion) using computer software, collecting data using clinometers, stop watches and protractors and analysing this on graphs. Other topics such as trigonometry and circuitry can also be covered, as can, for higher level students, the mathematical principles of "getting into orbit".

The subject matter fits neatly into the new science and mathematics statements covering planet Earth and beyond, force, motion, using instruments to collect data, presentation of data, experimenting by changing variables, and problem solving. Rocketry is also used by many schools in enrichment/accelerate classes, elective options and on school camps. All of the programmes are hands on learning activities which enable pupils to apply what they have learned to a practical real-life situation. Rockets are kept by the pupils/school and can be flown again with the requisite launching equipment. Five programmes can be taught as follows:

Introductory:

an intensive programme teaching the above subject matter. Each pupil constructs a parachute or streamer recovered kit set model rocket, flying it one or more times. Depending on the rocket selected (kept by the student at the end of the session) and number of flights, cost to a group of 25: about $49 each. Sample Course Outline

Advanced:

each pupil builds the same larger rocket using mathematics to construct some parts. The shape of some parts is designed by the pupils themselves. The programme contains elements from the above subject matter. Rockets (kept by the students after the course) can be flown with higher impulse motors. Cost to a group of 25: about $69 each.

Mathematics of Rocket Design:

pupils use geometry to make the parts of their own rockets, the design and creation of which is a wholly individual effort. Designs are checked for feasibility and completed rockets tested for stability. The programmes contains elements from the above subject matter. Cost to a group of 25: about $59 each.

Space Shuttle Experience (minor):

pupils learn about the Space Shuttle and principles of flight while building a small glider each, and one medium size rocket booster for the group. The booster rocket will carry each of pupil's glider in a similar fashion to the Space Shuttle. Again, the course contains elements from the subject matter above. Cost to a group of 30: about $32 each.

Shuttle Experience (major):

students learn about space and the Space Shuttle, while building in teams, a large rocket booster and a glider which is launched in the same manner as the Space Shuttle. Each member of each team has a specific part to build in the construction of the aircraft, and mathematical formulae are used in the construction of some parts. The course contains elements from the subject matter above. Cost to a group of 30: about $40 each.

 

Approximate costs above include GST, tuition, rocket motors, wadding and igniters, hand outs, rocket/glider kits and all glues and assembly materials.

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