Aerodynamics and Propulsion

Curriculum details

Strand

Core Concepts in Aerospace Engineering (Strand 1)

Sub-strand

Aerodynamics and Propulsion (1.2)

Content standard

2.1.2.CS.3 - Demonstrate understanding of the force required for propulsion of an aerospace vehicle. 2.1.2.LO.1 Explain the importance of weather in flight 2.1.2.LO.2 Identify the forces acting on an aerospace vehicle in flight. 2.1.2.LO.3 Compute the thrust generated by the propulsion system of an aerospace vehicle.

Indicator

2.1.2.LI.2 - Calculate the thrust generated from different power sources, e.g., battery and internal combustion engines (rocket, jet engine and internal piston engine)

Suggested placement

Semester 1, Week 13 (Week 13 of the year)

Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.

Curriculum reference

NaCCA curriculum document, p. 68

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Problem-Based Learning:
- Teacher makes use of videos to demonstrate the principles of operation of the different aerospace propulsion systems.
- With reference to the relevant physical laws (e.g., Newton's laws, Ohm's law in Physics), teacher goes ahead to explain to students the process of determining the thrust of an aerospace propulsion system.
Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Videos of aerospace propulsion systems in operation
- Water bottle rocket
- Videos of the various aerospace propulsion systems in operation
- Model jet engine
- Glow engine
- Remote-controlled aircraft propellers
Assessment (2.1.2.AS.2). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 2 Skills of conceptual understanding.