In their first inquiry science lesson at one particular school, students learned to design rockets with film cannisters and alka selzter. After designing their rockets, adding fins, and bringing in their fuels of choice, students compared their designs with those of other groups and devised experiments to measure the impact of one variable on flight. Some students focused on the amount of fluid/air space in the fuel chamber while others concentrated on the kind of fuel used. Still others examined the role of rocket design (e.g.; number of fins, size of nose cone) on the length of flight. As a culminating assignment, students created an iPhoto book to show other students and parents their answer to the question, "How do you design a high flying rocket with film cannisters and alka selzer?"

Click here for the lesson following this introductory activity

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