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Module Overview:
Rocket launches have long been a part of physics classes and they are recently enjoying a renaissance with the advent of various sensors, graphing calculators, and computer technologies into the classroom. We have found considerable reliability, terrific quantitative results, and lots of student enthusiasm for this rocket unit.
Although the primary objectives of the rocket unit are to teach accelerated motion and Newton's Laws, there are also a plethora of secondary objectives of students learning including:
- accuracy & precision as students compare calculated results with computer models and ultimately with field test results
- computer literacy as students use several programs to compare theoretical and actual rocket flight results
- math skills from algebra, geometry, trigonometry and calculus
- technical skills of modeling and model making
A successful rocket project, using cheap materials outlined in this module will take about two weeks. This timeline assumes students will be doing much of the paper rocket construction and calculations as homework. It is not unreasonable to expect 100% success for student launches. Creativity in rocket construction is encouraged but is mostly focused on the nose cone design.
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