Kerbal Rescue

Middle School Lesson Plan: Kerbal Space Program Mission

Lesson Objectives:

• Understand basic principles of rocket and airplane design.

• Learn to control a rocket and airplane in Kerbal Space Program (KSP).

• Practice problem-solving and critical thinking through a rescue mission.

Materials Needed:

• Computers with Kerbal Space Program installed

• Projector or large screen for demonstrations

• Handouts with basic controls and building tips

Lesson Outline:

Part 1: Introduction to Kerbal Space Program

1. Overview of KSP:

   • Explain the purpose of the game: a space flight simulation where players build and fly spacecraft.

   • Discuss the importance of designing safe and effective rockets and planes.

2. Basic Controls and Interface:

   • Show the main interface of KSP.

   • Explain the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) for rockets and the Spaceplane Hangar (SPH) for planes.

   • Go over basic controls for flying rockets and planes.

Part 2: Building and Launching a Rocket

1. Designing a Rocket:

   • Demonstrate how to build a simple rocket in the VAB.

   • Explain essential components: command pod, fuel tanks, engines, and parachutes.

   • Discuss the importance of balance and aerodynamics.

2. Launching and Flying the Rocket:

   • Show how to launch the rocket.

   • Explain basic flight controls: throttle, pitch, yaw, and roll.

   • Practice achieving a stable flight and landing with a parachute.

3. Controlled Crash Landing:

   • Guide students on how to deliberately crash the rocket while ensuring the survival of the Kerbal (use parachutes and choose a safe crash site).

Part 3: Building and Flying a Rescue Plane

1. Designing a Plane:

   • Demonstrate how to build a simple plane in the SPH.

   • Explain essential components: cockpit, wings, control surfaces, landing gear, and engines.

   • Discuss the importance of symmetry and weight distribution.

2. Flying the Plane:

   • Show how to take off and control the plane.

   • Explain basic flight maneuvers and navigation.

3. Rescue Mission:

   • Guide students to fly the plane to the crash site.

   • Land the plane safely near the crash site.

   • Demonstrate how to switch control to the Kerbal and board the plane.

Part 4: Mission Debrief and Discussion

1. Debrief:

   • Discuss the challenges faced during the mission.

   • Talk about what worked well and what could be improved.

   • Encourage students to share their experiences and solutions.

2. Q&A Session:

   • Answer any questions the students have about the game or the mission.

3. Extended Learning:

   • Suggest additional challenges, such as designing more advanced rockets or planes, completing orbital missions, or rescuing multiple Kerbals.

Handouts:

• Basic Controls Sheet: Diagrams and explanations of KSP controls.

• Building Tips: Key points for building stable rockets and planes.

• Mission Checklist: Step-by-step guide for the rocket and plane missions.

Assessment:

• Observe students during the activity to ensure they understand the basic principles.

• Have students write a short reflection on their mission experience, including what they learned and what they would do differently next time.

Conclusion:

• Summarize the key learning points.

• Encourage students to continue experimenting with KSP to enhance their understanding of space flight and aerodynamics.

This lesson plan is designed to be engaging and educational, providing a hands-on experience that reinforces STEM concepts through the fun and interactive environment of Kerbal Space Program.