Comparing costs when building a rocket
Students plan and build a straw rocket with the aim of making one that flies the farthest for the lowest cost.
Big idea
Planning ahead and comparing costs can help you make good spending decisions.
Essential questions
- How can you make spending decisions that are best for you?
- Are things that cost more always better?
Objectives
- Practice comparing costs and making spending choices
- Explore whether things that cost more are always better
What students will do
- Build and launch a test rocket using different combinations of materials.
- Reflect on which materials help them build a rocket that flies the farthest for the lowest cost.
Download activity
Teacher guide
cfpb_building_block_activities_comparing-costs-when-building-rocket_guide.pdf
Student materials
cfpb_building_block_activities_comparing-costs-when-building-rocket_worksheet.pdf
Note: Please remember to consider your students’ accommodations and special needs to ensure that all students are able to participate in a meaningful way.