Physics - Jet propulsion

In this MEL Academy lesson your child will:

  • learn the nature of jet propulsion
  • make a balloon rocket with their own hands
  • assemble a tin foil boat

Lesson time

5:00am   PST (San Francisco, Seattle, ...)
6:00am   MST (Phoenix, Denver, ...)
7:00am   CST (Chicago, Houston, ...)
8:00am   EST (New York, Toronto, ...)
1:00pm   GMT (London, ...)

Lesson duration: 45-55 minutes.

Prepare in advance

In this lesson, we will conduct "Rocket balloon and foil boat" DIY experiments. Prepare in advance household materials shown below.

DIY Materials

  5-6 meters of fishing line or very fine string/thread
 2x chair
  5x balloons different shapes/sizes
  sellotape
  a timer (optional)
  scissors
  drinking straws (preferably plastic)
  aluminum kitchen foil
  large bowl
  access to water
  cotton bud or pencil
  washing up liquid

Worksheet

Please, download and print this worksheet in advance. You’ll need to refer to it during the lesson.

Tutor

This lesson is presented by Mark Maclaine:

Mark Maclaine

Mark has been an educator for 20 years and has taught more than 20,000 hours of one-on-one lessons to over 1200 students. He initially struggled in school as the academic study didn’t come naturally to him. What was a weakness has become one of his greatest strengths - finding he is able to connect with students who are themselves struggling. Using a set of skills developed over the past two decades and his RELATE Teaching Method, Mark has become one of the best-known educators in the world. He is passionate about his work and is committed to transforming the education system so it works for everyone.