At Southwest Elementary – Academia Bilingüe, science class took an exciting turn as 5th graders set their sights on the sky. With the help of Science Teacher, Joline Andrews, and a set of mini-straw rocket launchers, students explored one of the most important forces in our world: gravity.
The project, funded by the GRPS Foundation with a mini-grant, wasn’t just about fun—it was about learning. Fifth graders are expected to understand and explain that Earth’s gravitational force always pulls objects downward. To bring this standard to life, students designed, built, and launched straw rockets. By adjusting trajectory angles and launch energy, they were able to test how gravity affects motion. Along the way, they practiced thinking like true scientists—hypothesizing, recording data, and analyzing results.
Hands-On Learning, Lasting Impact
Nearly 80 students took part in the project, gaining more than just scientific knowledge. By testing their rockets, they practiced critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills—all essential tools for today’s learners. Students were challenged to design, test, and modify their rockets, a process that mirrors how real scientists and engineers work.
The results were undeniable. Andrews measured success both quantitatively and qualitatively: students compared pre- and post-tests, filled out surveys about their interest in science, and reflected on their learning. Just as important, their enthusiasm was evident during every launch. “The students told me this was the best experiment yet,” she shared.
A Successful Launch
By the end of the unit, students weren’t just talking about how rockets soared—they were asking deeper questions about how gravity might work differently at the equator or the poles. They also discussed what makes an experiment fair and how to refine their testing process.
“The only change I would make is giving them more time to play around before moving into official experiments,” Andrews reflected.
The highlight? Watching students light up with curiosity. One 5th grader summed it up best: “Ohh, I wonder what would happen if the straw was longer!”
Thanks to this hands-on project, Southwest Elementary students didn’t just learn about gravity—they learned how to question, test, and think like scientists.
