Paper Rockets

What you need:

• Tape

• Scissors

• Sharpened pencil

• Straw

• Construction paper

What you do:

1. Take the construction paper and cut a rectangular strip—approximately five inches wide by seven inches long.

2. Put the sharp end of the pencil on one corner of the rectangular piece. Roll the paper tightly around the pencil. Tape the paper together and then slide the pencil out.

3. Fold the pointed end of the paper and then tape.

   Tip: Make sure you check to see if your rocket has any leaks by blowing into the rocket and seeing if you feel any escaping air. If you do, make sure to put tape over the leaks.

4. Use the construction paper to cut out two rocket fins and tape them to either side of the rocket.

5. To launch the rocket, put the straw in the open end of the rocket and then blow sharply through the straw.

6. Watch how far your rocket goes!

Questions to ask:

1. What do you think would happen if you had leaks in your rocket and you didn't tape them?

2. How do you think the shape and size of the fins change the way your rocket flies?

3. How far can you launch your rocket? Does changing the angle you launch it from affect its distance?

What's the science?

When you blow air into the rocket, the air pushes it forward and sends it flying. As the rocket moves, air flowing around it helps guide where it goes. The fins keep the rocket steady so it flies straight instead of spinning or wobbling. When the push of air runs out, gravity pulls the rocket back down.