As part of the Rockets Quest, Acton Middle School learners participate in the Rockets Money Challenge. Learners are separated into groups for quest. To help build teamwork and develop collaborative skills, learners conduct research, complete quest challenges, experiment, and engineer rockets in their groups. Learners are presented with the opportunity to earn “money” in their groups with the Rockets Money Challenge. The Rockets Money Challenge serves as a system of accountability that is integrated into several aspects of studio culture and life. 

The Rockets Quest is a session-long project in Acton Middle School. To complement this project, learners simultaneously focus their Genre (writing) theme on science fiction short stories. Learners dive into science fiction by learning about its history, characteristics, and cultural influences. After watching a video detailing the evolution of science fiction, learners are challenged to consider whether “the asking of many questions or the providing of a few great solutions is more valuable from a work of science fiction” as they embark on their sci-fi journey. 

At the beginning of each year, elementary studio learners are introduced to the Challenge Donut. The Challenge Donut is a visual metaphor that helps learners identify when a task is challenging but not overwhelming.