Lesson Summary

Design a launch system

In Hidden Figures, we learn about four black women who were “really good” at math. So good that they worked as computers for NASA and helped John Glenn, the first man in space, to successfully orbit the Earth.

The “Space Race” is back on and we need your help! Design and build a launch system that will allow an object to be launched and “escape” Earth’s gravity for the longest time.

Science or Math Standards

• Motion and Stability – Forces and Interactions:
  5.PS2.1. Support an argument with evidence that the gravitational force exerted by Earth on objects is directed toward Earth’s center.
• Technological Systems:
  5.3.5.ETS3.2(MA). Use sketches or drawings to show how each part of a product or device relates to other parts in the product or device.

ELA Standards

• Speaking and Listening (SL) Comprehension and Collaboration:
  SL.5.1. Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 5 topics and texts, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly.

Video

Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race