What a thrill! Our children became rocket scientists today at the Space Domes America in Copley, Ohio next to Copley High School. I can't wait to add some pictures to this post, but for now, words will do.
We spent between 2 and 3 hours just building our rockets, but it was not tiresome at all. The kids, even though they were standing the entire time they were building, were completely engrossed in the task at hand. They used plastic bottles, a bit of styrofoam posterboard and lots and lots of electrical tape to personally make each of their rockets, and even decorated them before the launch.
Our teacher, Mrs. Sesker, was a lively, friendly person who challenged the children to discover answers on their own. Although she is obviously very well-educated, she gave each of them an opportunity to learn by doing, not just hearing. During our brief lunch break, she explained how rockets liftoff and other aspects of the flight, even bringing out a whiteboard to draw some diagrams for us. This was only after she made us promise not to make fun of her drawing ability. There was no concern for that, because all of the kids were enthralled with her teaching.
The launch was a wonderful success. With very well-made rockets, our students sent their creations soaring across the field, possibly worrying the tennis players, who were practicing extremely close to our launch pad. We were also blessed with a nice, sunny day and no wind to affect the trajectories of the rockets.
Mrs. Sesker gave us this opportunity outside of her busy camp schedule. (She runs summer daycamps at the facility through the season. Check it out.) She has offered to do it again for us even to learn about another branch of science. She was very giving and helpful, and told me that she just loves to teach children. It was a great day of fun, discovery and wonder for all the kids, and the moms too.
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