The many activities contained in this teaching guide emphasize hands-on involvement, prediction, data collection and interpretation, teamwork, and problem solving. The guide also contains background information about aeronautical research that can help students learn how airplanes fly. Following the background sections are a series of activities…

Recounts the contributions of Robert Goddard from the years of 1911 to 1930 to the development of the physics of rocketry. Discusses the results of Goddard's series of rocket experiments endorsed by the Smithsonian Institute, and Goddard's claims to priority in the development of rocket theory. (MDH)

This lesson guide for instruction of students in grades 3-5 contains activities in mathematics, science, and technology. The NASA "Why?" Files is a series of instructional programs consisting of broadcast, print, and online elements. Emphasizing standards-based instruction, Problem-Based Learning, and science as inquiry, the series seeks to…

Two properties of a wing, namely aspect ratio and wing loading, are described and the matrix approach is used to make certain deductions about particular wing plans. Some examples are provided which show how the matrix transformation of one wing plan into another brings about predictable changes in wing properties. (KR)

Science education is an integral part of scientific endeavors. When the National Aeronautics and Space Administration was created by an act of Congress in 1958, its charter required the agency to "...provide for the widest practicable and appropriate dissemination of information concerning its activities and the results thereof." Part of that…

The activities in this book are designed to reinforce the elementary concepts of flight. General background information, suggested activities, questions for discussion, and answers are provided. Twenty-eight reproducible worksheets are contained in this guide. Topics include: hot air balloons, the physics of flight, air resistance, airplane…

Discussed is the use of model rocketry to teach the principles of Newtonian mechanics. Included are forces involved; calculations for vertical launches; two-dimensional trajectories; and variations in mass, drag, and launch angle. (CW)

This activity, part of the NASA CONNECT Series, is designed to help students in grades 6-8 learn how NASA engineers develop experimental aircraft. It consists of an overview of the program, details of the hands-on activity, a series of blackline master student worksheets, teacher materials, and a guide to further resources. (MM)

The curriculum materials contained in this document were developed through a cooperative effort by educators in the state of Maryland. It was a curriculum project aimed at the meaningful integration of mathematics and science. It is suggested that these materials be used in two significant ways. First, this document can serve as an instructional…

This resource guide details the services and materials available from the National Coalition for Aviation Education (NCAE) member organizations. An alphabetical listing of 15 NCAE member organizations provides in each case the name of a contact person, address, telephone and fax numbers, and a very brief description of whom or what the…

The construction of the International Space Station (ISS) is one of humankind's most exciting and challenging endeavors. Numerous rocket launches are required to build this orbiting science laboratory. The purpose of this curriculum supplement is to introduce students in the Early Childhood classroom to the International Space Station and the role…

This resource guide contains information on curriculum guides, resources for teachers, computer software and computer related programs, audio/visual presentations, model aircraft and demonstration aids, training seminars and career education, and an aerospace bibliography for primary grades. Each entry includes all or some of the following items:…