Honors Algebra III/Trig.

Name
Rocket Design Project Period
Phase One: Rocket Design

Phase One: Rocket Design

Requirements:
1. Rockets should have a minimum of two (2) fins and a maximum of five (5) fins.

2. The body of the rocket should be a minimum length of 4 inches and a maximum length of 7
7/8 inches.

3. The amount of clay used for the nose cone should have a maximum diameter of 3/4 inch when
rolled into a ball.

4. Each rocket within the same group must be different. This means that the rockets must
incorporate different design characteristics.

Materials:
 Straw
 Index cards
 Modeling clay
 Pencil
 Ruler
 Scissors
 Transparent tape

Construction:
1. Sketch your rocket design on a piece of paper before using any of the provided materials.

2. Draw your fin design on an index card.

3. Cut the fins out of the index card, making sure they are all the same size and shape. Feel free
to decorate your fins. You must label your rocket by writing the following information on at
least one fin.

Rocket A or B
Class Period

2-3-A
Group Number
4. Cut the straw to the desired length with scissors. Keep in mind the minimum and maximum
length listed above.

5. Cut a piece of tape as long as the edge of the fin that is to be connected to the rocket body.
Place the tape on the edge of one fin. Repeat this procedure for all fins. Attach the fins so
they are evenly spaced around the straw. Trim off any excess tape using the scissors

6. Knead the clay to soften it. Carefully shape the clay to match the desired nose cone shape.
The surface of the nose cone needs to be smooth. Press the nose cone on top of the straw
rocket body, making sure the nose cone is centered. The outside edge between the straw and
nose cone should be sealed carefully with the clay.

Remember:
1. The following characteristics can affect the rocket’s flight:
 Fin design, quantity, and placement
 Body tube length (straw length)
 Nose cone shape and mass
 Center of gravity
 Overall rocket mass

2. Be creative with your design!

3. Take your time.

4. Most importantly…have fun!!