STEM Units

Below you are able to access files for different STEM units.  The students have enjoyed these units and are engaged and excited to be doing something other than the "norm" of mathematics and science that also integrates technology and engineering principles.

The Bridge Unit makes use of the West Point Bridge Designer Program (this is a free program).  http://bridgecontest.usma.edu/download2010.htm

The Rocket Unit makes use of RocketModeler II - this is a free applet created by NASA.  Students are able to model the launch of their own rocket.  The students should have a basic design and size in mind before beginning this applet and should change the fuel type to "solid," but water and air are also choices if you are using that type of rocket.  We used solid fuel rockets from Pitsco with "A" engines (they fly the least highest.  We even allowed students to change the fin size and found that with custom fins they still receive good results on flight day.  Also, we found that students  are able to shorten the length of their rocket without a problem, but when they have extended the basic length the rocket broke apart at the extension joint. http://exploration.grc.nasa.gov/education/rocket/rktsim.html

I have most of the documents shown within the units as word documents.  If you would like a copy of the original document to modify for your class please feel free to email me  to request a copy!