Challenge 002 · Ages 7–11
Balloon Rocket
Investigate how air pressure creates thrust using a balloon rocket.
Recommended Guided Learning Time: 1.5 hours
Learners may require additional or fewer hours depending on age, prior experience, pace and the level of development they choose to take their project to.
Primary STEAM area
Science
The Challenge
What will your learner investigate?
Can you make a balloon rocket travel further or faster by controlling air pressure and design variables?
Learning outcomes
- Describe how escaping air produces thrust.
- Carry out a fair test by changing one variable.
- Measure, compare and explain results using evidence.
Connected learning
Science: forces, pressure and motion; Mathematics: distance, time and averages; Design & Technology: testing systems; English: predictions and conclusions.
Dream Areas
Prepare for this Challenge
What you'll need
Here's what may be useful for completing this activity. Requirements may vary depending on the learner, activity format and equipment available.
Materials & consumables
- Balloons
- drinking straws
- string
- tape.
Equipment, tools & software
- Two fixed places (such as chair backs or door handles) to tie the string between
- measuring tape
- stopwatch
- scissors.
Safety & preparation
- Use latex-free balloons where necessary
- keep balloon fragments away from young children.
These preparation notes support planning and do not replace a project-specific risk assessment or appropriate adult supervision.