Fizzy rocket activity

Introduction

This activity will give children the chance to design, build, test and redesign their own model rockets.

To begin with, a pre-designed model rocket is made. This is then launched and the height to which it reaches is measured. Students then get to redesign their rockets to try to improve their flight. Once the new models are made, students can then see whose rocket reaches the highest point and whether or not their designs worked in the way that predicted.

This activity is aimed at students in key stage 1 and 2.

You should allow at least 1 hour to carry out the experiment.

 

Learning objectives

At the end of this activity, students should understand the following:

• Chemicals can react together and produce gases.
• Gases that are given off in a sealed area build up pressure.
• A build up of pressure can cause explosions.
• Changing the height and shape of the rocket can alter the flight of the rocket – aerodynamics.

 

Activity plan

Spend 10 minutes introducing the activity.

• Introduce the idea of a rocket.
• Discuss where students may have seen rockets in the news.
• Ask students to pair up and think about how a rocket works and the different parts that it may have.
• Discuss the students' thoughts and ideas as a group and relate them to the practical activity.

Spend 40 minutes building the rockets.

• Show the class the different materials that will be used and explain their purpose.
• Clearly describe the method so the students know what they need to do.
• Encourage the class to come up with their own rocket designs.
• The students should be able to discuss their predictions about how the flight of the rockets will be effected.
• Test the rockets.
• Give students the opportunity to redesign their rockets.

Spend 5 minutes tidying away.

Spend 5 minutes talking about the activity as a class.

 

Kit required

• 1 film container per child
• 1 antacid tablet
• Water supply
• Sticky tape
• Card to make rocket shapes
• Pens and pencils
• Scissors
• Glue
• Blue tack
• Meter ruler