Benefits of School Projects Using Estes Model Rocket Kits
Blast off to learning success! Educators are recognizing many exciting benefits of using model rockets in the curriculum. It’s an inexpensive resource, with quality model rocket kits available from many manufacturers ranging from Estes model rocket kits to Aerotech, LOC and Edmonds models. Experienced teachers give many different reasons why model rockets are such a motivating, high-energy tool with a great success rate.
Good general skills developed by using trusted brands like Estes Model Rocket Kits include psychomotor skills, knowledge of spatial relationships, attention to detail, conceptual thinking skills, and a sense of accomplishment. Through careful training on how to use model rocket kits, students can achieve a better safety awareness and greater attention to detail. An opportunity to demonstrate experience and knowledge before others is just what some students need in order to gain healthy self-confidence and motivation to work harder in their studies.
School projects using model rocket kits can capture students’ imaginations. The awe of seeing Estes’ miniature rockets soar into the sky on launch day may well launch an underperforming student into a life-long interest in science and a successful engineering degree.
In this day and age, model rockets provide a launching pad for the technological literacy that is becoming a top educational priority. Students studying rocketry become familiar with technical concepts, terms, and techniques almost by osmosis. You’ll hear them intelligently talking about elevation and loft, engine drives, and trajectory.
By studying rocket theory, formulating hypotheses, and testing them using carefully planned rocket launch experiments, students can practice the scientific method. They can buy interchangeable model rocket kits and test different body styles or launch angles, measuring the vertical and horizontal distance traveled. Or they could even try different brands, comparing Aerotech to Estes rocket kits for durability and reusability, for example. By working carefully with their peers in “research teams,” even elementary school students can learn to design and carry out scientific investigations and even properly document the process through notes and lab reports.
The process of researching the principles of rockets, then planning, building, and launching your own model rocket is science in real action. Students learn theory and then experience practical application. They feel a sense of accomplishment in acknowledging that this is bigger than just “kid stuff.” Don’t be surprised to hear everyone rave about their rocket kits and ask for more.
Teachers can also use a growing interest in rockets to aid the broader educational development of students. Students with an enthusiasm for model rockets will dive right into rocket-related books in their reading class, and even reluctant writers get a chance to shine when writing about the exciting rocket process. Math practice glides on almost unnoticed as students perform the calculations necessary to complete their project.
Encourage cooperative learning by allowing students to work together in teams. Create connections with the community by inviting family members and even the public and the media to participate on Launch Day! Have students give a brief presentation of what they have learned before this exciting day. Then the big day finally arrives. As the countdown begins, cameras flash and students hold their breath impatiently. Then with an explosion like fireworks, they leave! Launching Estes model rocket kits and watching them fly high in the blue sky is a great culmination of learning and points the way to ever greater opportunities.