The workshop
Pupils work in teams of three or pairs to build simple cars powered by compressed air.
The cars can travel surprisingly quickly and we finish the session with an exciting race off to find our Rocket Racer Champions!
Workshop Requirements
To run the workshop we need access to a space large enough to accommodate all of the participants for the introduction at the start of the workshop.
We will then need a space or spaces suitable for the number of participants to undertake a practical activity. For larger groups we will usually split into a number of separate classrooms for the rocket construction.
For launching the cars we will need access to a large indoor space, such as a school hall or sports hall.
Workshop Format
The session starts with an introduction to rocket science. This may include demonstrations of some small alcohol fuelled rockets and the Wonderstruck Hoverchair if you haven’t already had our Rocket Show as a starter activity.
The introduction also covers the construction process and suggestions for modifications to make the car go faster, further and in a straighter line.
Participants then work in small teams to build their own rocket cars. We encourage participants to use their scientific knowledge to design aerodynamic styling for their car.
Once complete, it’s time to race!