Kerbal

Introduction and Basics of Rocketry

Introduction (10 minutes):

• Brief introduction to space exploration and the challenge of reaching the moon.

• Introduce Kerbal Space Program as a simulation tool for this endeavor.

Direct Instruction (20 minutes):

• Discuss the basics of rocketry: thrust, fuel, stages, stability.

• Introduction to the user interface of KSP, its tools, and basic game mechanics.

Activity (15 minutes):

• Students will start up KSP and familiarize themselves with the interface.

• Guided activity: Building a basic single-stage rocket.

Closure (5 minutes):

• Discuss what was learned and preview the next session: Designing a multi-stage rocket.

Session 2 - Designing a Rocket for the Mun:

Introduction (5 minutes):

• Quick review of the previous session.

Direct Instruction (15 minutes):

• Introduce multi-stage rockets and their advantages.

• Discuss the basics of achieving orbit in KSP and the requirements to reach the Mun.

Activity (25 minutes):

• Students design and build their rockets aiming for the Mun in KSP's Vehicle Assembly Building.

• Students will test their rockets on the launch pad, making iterative changes as necessary.

Closure (5 minutes):

• Reflect on the challenges and successes of the design process.

• Preview the next session: The actual launch and attempt to reach the Mun.

Session 3 - Launching and Orbital Mechanics:

Introduction (5 minutes):

• Quick review of the rocket design principles.

Direct Instruction (10 minutes):

• Basics of orbital mechanics: trajectory, apoapsis, periapsis, and transfer orbits.

• How to achieve a Munar encounter in KSP.

Activity (30 minutes):

• Students launch their rockets and attempt to reach the Mun.

• Teacher circulates to assist and troubleshoot as students navigate.

Closure (5 minutes):

• Reflect on the mission outcomes: successes, failures, and learnings.

• Discuss potential follow-up activities or challenges, such as landing on the Mun or returning safely to Kerbin (the home planet in KSP).

Assessment:

• Formative: Teacher observes students' engagement and understanding during direct instruction and their ability to apply knowledge during KSP activities.

• Summative: Evaluate the students' rocket designs, their understanding of the principles discussed, and their success in the mission objectives.

Notes for the Teacher:

• Depending on the experience level of the students with KSP, pacing may need to be adjusted.

• Encourage students to collaborate and share insights with one another.

• Be prepared for a variety of outcomes, as KSP can be challenging. The process and what is learned from failures is just as important as mission successes.

Extension Activities (Optional):

• Design and execute a mission to land on the Mun and return safely.

• Explore other celestial bodies within KSP.

• Discuss real-world space missions and compare them with KSP simulations.

This lesson combines practical game-based learning with theoretical principles, making it engaging and educational for middle school students.