Activity

Design a Crew Exploration Vehicle

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet
This Design a Crew Exploration Vehicle activity also includes:

Make a splash from space. Participants use the engineering design process to create a waterproof space exploration vehicle capable of an upright landing. Young engineers test and modify designs as needed and participate in a group discussion at the end of the activity.  

3 Views 0 Downloads NGSS: Designed
Instructional Ideas
  • Organize learning community into collaborative teams before beginning
  • Have groups complete a gallery walk of models, leaving sticky notes with helpful suggestions about each design
Classroom Considerations
  • Allow extra materials as needed for testing
  • Activity uses water, so be prepared for spills
Pros
  • Background section provides a real-world connection to NASA projects
  • Includes video links of splashdown tests to engage pupils
Cons
  • None