1. Understand Basic Aerodynamics: Students will learn the fundamental principles of how and why objects fly, including the concepts of lift, drag, thrust, and weight.

2. Discover Propulsion Systems: Gain a clear understanding of what propels aircraft and rockets, from rubber bands to water rockets, and the science behind propulsion.

3. Explore Stability and Control: Learn how aircraft and rockets are designed to be stable and controllable, including the roles of center of gravity, wings, tails, and control surfaces.

4. Experiment with Materials and Structures: Understand the importance of materials and structural design in aerospace, exploring how different materials can affect the performance and durability of flight models.

5. Apply Scientific Inquiry and Engineering Design: Engage in the process of scientific inquiry and engineering design, formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, and iterating designs based on test results.

6. Enhance Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills: Foster creativity through the design and construction of various models, encouraging innovative thinking and problem-solving as students overcome design challenges.

7. Cultivate a Future-Focused Mindset: Inspire students to think about the future of aerospace, imagining and designing what aircraft and spacecraft might look like years from now.

8. Develop Collaboration and Communication Skills: Through group discussions and sharing projects, students will improve their ability to work with others and effectively communicate their ideas and findings.

The teacher of "Exploring Aerospace: From Gliders to Rockets" is an experienced educator with a strong background in physics and engineering. Building on the success of the previous Outschool class "Study Airplanes With Hands-On Projects," the instructor brings a deep understanding of flight mechanics and a passion for hands-on learning. Known for making complex concepts accessible and engaging, the teacher's expertise and personalized approach ensure a high-quality, enriching educational experience for all students.

Homework Offered
1. Project Construction: Building and testing various models like gliders, parachutes, and rockets, using household materials.
2. Design Challenges: Creative tasks where students modify and improve their models based on flight performance and principles learned in class.
3. Research Tasks: Short research assignments to explore additional aerospace concepts, historical milestones, or current events in aviation and space exploration.
4. Reflection and Analysis: Writing brief reflections or analyses on experiments conducted, discussing what worked, what didn't, and why.
5. Interactive Quizzes: Participating in online quizzes to reinforce understanding of key concepts and prepare for the next class.

Homework is designed to be flexible and thought-provoking, ensuring students have the opportunity to explore and learn actively outside the classroom.
0 - 1 hours per week outside of class
Assessments Offered
I provide constructive feedback for projects submitted. Students will also take quiz games via Blooket.
Grades Offered

- "Fundamentals of Aerodynamics" by John D. Anderson
- NASA's Educational Resources (https://www.nasa.gov/stem