The Rocket Challenge: I WONDER how far my rocket can fly?!?!?!

The Rocket Challenge is the first programme in the Wonder Project family. It’s designed to get young Kiwis excited and wondering about science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

Through the Rocket Challenge we have learned about rockets, explored the engineering design process, understood how to keep everyone safe, examined Isaac Newton's laws of motion, aerodynamics and making and testing prototypes.

The winning group managed to send their rocket a whopping 31 metres from the launch pad! 

The groups each had specific roles to undertake through the design process and the launch of the rocket including Chief Engineer (launching the rocket), Chief Scientist (measuring the variables i.e. distance, height, air pressure and water quantity) and Health & Safety Officer (keeping the students observing safe).

There were some huge successes and some tough moments where groups learned a lot about ensuring their rocket is airtight to ensure a successful launch. Through our reflective questions at the completion of the project it was clear everyone had learned valuable lessons and developed new skills.