Balloon Staging

Add to list Go to activity
Activity link broken? See if it's at the internet archive
In this activity, learners simulate a multistage rocket launch using party balloons, fishing line, straws, and a plastic cup. Educators can use this activity to explain how inventors have refined technology to make space travel more efficient and effective.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per student
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Model
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • 2 long party balloons (round balloon will not work)
  • Nylon monofilament fishing line (any weight)
  • 2 Plastic straws (milkshake size, non-bendable)
  • Styrofoam cup
  • Masking tape
  • Scissors

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Astronomy
      • Probes, Satellites and Spacecraft
  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Aerospace Engineering
  • Physical Sciences
    • Energy
      • Energy and Power
      • Work and Machines
    • Motion and Forces
      • Machines
      • Momentum and Velocity
      • Acceleration
      • Projectile Motion
      • Newton's Laws
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process
      • Invention and Innovation

Informal Categories

  • Model Building
  • Transportation

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • be mobile
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Uses STEM to solve real-world problems
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Vogt, Gregory ; Storm, Roger

Rights: