Elementary students as scientists use scientific ideas about forces and motion, climate, and weather to answer the following driving question: How can we plan a safe and successful model rocket launch? Students use their Lesson 1 models as well as data and information obtained in this lesson and previous lessons to develop a checklist that will set up a safe and successful model rocket launch. Students collect weather data and determine if conditions are safe for a model rocket launch. Students conduct a model rocket launch and reflect on the effect weather had on the launch and how their checklist helped them prepare for a successful launch.

Click the Download PDF button above for the complete Lesson Plan.

Student Materials

Per Student

• Model Rocket Safety Checklist Template
• L3 Student Handout
• Eye protection

Per Small Group (2 to 4 students)

• Rocket and engine
• Phone or other devices to record model rocket flight
• Index cards or sticky notes
• Beaufort Scale

Teacher Materials

• Digital Handheld Anemometer
• Launchpad(s) (See Lesson Preparation below.)
• Hobby knife
• Rocket kit instructions (for example, Star Hopper)
• Estes Education: Understanding Rocketry Basics video
• Estes Education: Launch Rocketry in Your Classroom video
• National Association of Rocketry (NAR) Safety Code
• Phone or other devices to record student launches
• Chart paper
• Markers

Note: Eye protection must be worn when groups launch model rockets and is recommended for spectators.