NASA Glenn Videoconference: Exploration of the Solar System/Space and the Solar System

Science

Earth and Space Science - Structure of the earth system; earth's history;earth in the solar system.
Science as Inquiry - Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry; understanding about scientific inquiry
Science and Technology - Abilities of technological design;
understanding about science and technology
Science in Personal and Social Perspectives - Personal health;
populations, resources, and environments; natural hazards;
risks and benefits; science and technology in society

Technology

Social, Ethical, and Human Issues - Research and evaluate the accuracy, relevance, appropriateness, comprehensiveness, and bias of electronic information sources concerning real-world problems.
Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Tools - Routinely and efficiently use on-line information resources to meet needs for collaboration, research, publications, communications, and productivity; design, develop, publish and present products (e.g., Web pages, video tapes) using technology resources that demonstrate and communicate curriculum concepts to audiences inside and outside the classroom.
Research Tools - Use content-specific tools, software and simulations (e.g., environmental probes, graphing calculators, exploratory environments, Web tools) to support learning and research; research and evaluate the accuracy, relevance, appropriateness, comprehensiveness, and bias of electronic information sources concerning real-world problems.

Objective(s):

As a result of engaging in these activities students will:


1. Develop an understanding of the physical features and environmental conditions found on the planets, moons, and asteroid belt in our solar system.
2. Become aware of the types of equipment, supplies, and technology that may be required for safe and comfortable space travel.
3. Develop and/or improve word processing and Internet use skills.

In the pre-conference activity, students will be introduced to the study of our solar system through an inquiry-based approach to learning. The students will be guided to specific resources to gather information about the solar system. Students will then participate in a NASA videoconference. As a follow-up, to reinforce the lesson, students will construct a tri-fold travel brochure on a tour to one of the planets, moons, or asteroid belts found in our solar system.

Note: This lesson may be completed with students working in groups or individually.

 

Evaluation:

Students will be evaluated on their ability to complete the pre- and post-conference activities. They will also be evaluated on the accuracy or feasibility of their answers in the post-assessment.

 

Submitted by: Lea Einsporn and Dana Flenner, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio.