Blast off to learning success! Educators are recognizing numerous exciting benefits to using model rocketry in the curriculum. It’s an economical 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 rocketry is such a motivational and high-energy tool with a great success rate.

Good general skills developed by using trusted brands like Estes model rocket kits include psycho-motor skills, knowledge of spatial relations, attention to detail, conceptual thinking skills, and sense of accomplishment. Through careful coaching on how to use model rocket kits, students can attain a better awareness of safety and increased attention to detail. An opportunity to demonstrate expertise and knowledge before others is just what some students need to gain a healthy self-confidence and motivation to try harder with their studies.

School projects using model rocket kits can capture the imagination of students. The awe of watching Estes model rockets soar into the sky on launch day may well launch an underachieving student into a lifelong interest in science and a successful engineering degree.

In this day and age, model rocketry provides a launch-pad for technology literacy that is becoming a major educational priority. Students studying rocketry become familiar with technical concepts, terms, and techniques almost by osmosis. You’ll hear them speaking intelligently of lift and loft, engine boosters, and trajectory.

Through studying rocket theory, forming hypotheses, and testing them through carefully planned rocket launch experiments, students can practice the scientific method. They can purchase interchangeable model rocket kits and test different body styles or launch angles, measuring vertical and horizontal distance traveled. Or they could even test different brands, comparing Aerotech to Estes model rocket kits for durability and reusability for instance. Working carefully with their peers in “research teams”, even elementary students can learn how to design and carry out scientific investigations and even how to properly document the process through lab notes and reports.

The process of researching rocketry principles, then planning, building, and launching their own model rocket is science in real live action. Students learn theory and then experience the hands-on application. They feel a sense of accomplishment recognizing that this is bigger than just “kid stuff”. Don’t be surprised to hear everyone talking excitedly about their model rocket kits, and asking for more.

Teachers can also use a growing interest in rocketry to aid students’ broader educational development. Students with an enthusiasm for model rocketry will dive right into rocket-related books in their reading class, and even reluctant writers have a chance to shine when writing about the exciting rocket process. Mathematics practice slips in almost without being noticed as students make necessary calculations to carry out their project.

Foster cooperative learning by allowing students to work together in teams. Create community connections by inviting family members and even the public and media to participate in launch day! Have students give a brief presentation of what they’ve learned leading up to this exciting day. Then the big day finally comes. As the countdown begins, cameras flash and students hold their breath in eager anticipation. Then, with an explosion like fireworks, they’re off! Launching Estes model rocket kits and watching them soar high into the blue sky is a grand culmination of learning and points the way to ever greater opportunities.

Joe Kanooga is a father of two kids, a successful business owner and the author of numerous articles about Estes rocket. Visit learningthings.com to learn more.