Utilizing simple and inexpensive equipment, elementary and middle school science teachers can conduct interesting, exciting, and productive units on rockets, the oldest form of self-contained vehicles in existence. This teaching guide contains the following: (1) a brief history of experimentation and research on rockets and rocket propulsion from ancient Chinese warfare to modern space exploration; (2) the mechanical principles of rockets in terms of Newton's Laws of Motion; (3) a discussion of the science of practical rocketry in terms of rocket engine design, types of propellants, engine thrust control, flight path stability and control, and weight versus payload considerations; (4) 10 hands-on classroom activities which include required materials and tools, procedures, and typical classroom discussion topics relating to each activity; and (5) a list of commercial suppliers for model rocketry resources. The activities are effective for teaching the science of rocketry, utilizing readily available materials such as soda cans, pencils, balloons, and straws. Further, these activities are suggested as an introduction to a follow-up activity of building and launching commercially-supplied model rockets. (PR)