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This NASA Engineering Design Challenges - Spacecraft Structures unit plan also includes:
- Lesson Plan
- Activity
- Worksheet
- Answer Key
- Reading Passage
- Graphic & Image
- Printable
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What kind of design challenges are there in building structures to support rocket engines? The unit takes design teams through the process of building the lightest possible thrust support structure that can withstand the necessary forces to launch a rocket at least three times. Teams design, build, and test their structures leading to redesigns. Once the team has the optimum design, they develop a presentation via storyboards.
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Concepts
Instructional Ideas
- After teams have designed and tested their structures, vary the weight of the rocket and see if the structures can still meet the new requirements
Classroom Considerations
- Build the rockets and launcher prior to beginning this unit
- The extensions can add several days to the time to complete the unit
Pros
- The masters section contains a flier that can be sent home to parents
- A section of the unit is devoted to linking the design activity to science principles
Cons
- None