Date: Fri 05-Mar-1999

Publication: Bee

Author: CURT

Quick Words:

Middle-Gate-Rocket-Fagan

Full Text:

Middle Gate Counts Down To Blast Off

(with photos)

BY ANN MARIE COHEN

Middle Gate Elementary School students let their imaginations soar as they

assembled model rockets and prepared for take off. Georgia Smith's fifth grade

class listened attentively to Pam Fagan, math/science coordinator.

Seated in groups at tables, children were provided with necessary tools to

build their rocket. The task, assembling the flying model rocket kit, is a

district-wide project all fifth graders engage in.

The students worked in a sequence following detailed written directions that

Pam Fagan helped to clarify. Students measured and glued with precision to

complete the rocket's launch lug, with the promise of a future launch

motivating them all the while. "It's exciting to launch the rocket, but gluing

it is the hard part," said Tamisha La Player.

And this is a challenge student Benjamin Snyder has had experience with. "This

weekend I emptied my allowance on parts for a custom-designed model rocket. It

is high-powered. I am saving for an engine now. It's very expensive."

The young engineers need to consider many factors for a smooth launch. Does

the nose cone fit properly? No? It may require a bit of sanding or taping. The

proper assembly of the rocket determines its straight flight, Pam Fagan said.

The students cooperated in their work. "We are tying streamers onto the shot

cord, which is the recovery system," said Molly Vogel. One student held a

rocket while the other tied.

The project is now in its final stages. Students will take their rockets home

to decorate them in preparation for the launch. Decals and paint will be used

and a friendly reminder issued: don't paint the nose cones shut!

The launch is scheduled to take place next week, weather permitting. Pam Fagan

explained that the rocket can be launched in rain or snow, just not during

windy conditions.

Ms Smith, grade five teacher, said, "Even though I have participated in many

'launches', I still feel an excitement for this great learning activity. The

project gives knowledge about space and teaches basic principles of Newton's

Law."