PURPOSE:
This WebQuest was designed to give the student a better understanding of space exploration and the planets. Students will work individually and in groups to challenge themselves to think about space science from both a historical and a technological perspective.
STANDARDS:
This WebQuest was developed for the seventh grade curriculum. It meets Missouri state standards Strand 6 – Composition and Structure and Structure of the Universe and the Motion of Objects Within It:
1. The universe has observable properties and structure, A. The Earth, Sun, and Moon are part of a larger system that includes other planets and smaller celestial bodies, b. Compare and contrast the size, composition, atmosphere, and surface of the planets in our solar system, B. The Earth has a composition and location suitable to sustain life,
b. Compare and contrast the characteristics of Earth that support life with the characteristics of other planets that are considered favorable or unfavorable to life (e.g., atmospheric gases, extremely high/low temperatures and location suitable to sustain life). Strand 8 - Impact of Science, Technological Human Activity: 1. The nature of technlogy can advance, and is advanced by , science as it seeks to apply scientific knowledge in ways that meet human needs, A. Designed objects used to do things better or more easily and to some things that could not otherwise be done at all,
a. Explain how technological improvements, such as those developed for use in space exploration, have led to the invention of new products that may improve lives here on Earth, B. Advances in technology ofter result in improved data collection and an increase in scientific information, a. Identify the link between technological developments and scientific discoveries made possible through their development.
PRIOR KNOWLEDGE:
Students should have been versed on the proper use of the computer and programs which make brochures before beginning this WebQuest therefore computer skills and computer ethics are a must. No special accomendations should be needed if students are able to use a computer.
INSTRUCTION FOR IMPLEMENTATION:
Start by asking the students to brainstorm about what they know about the space exploration. Have them make a KWL over space exploration. Discuss how science and technology contribute to the advancement of planetary studies. They are to review the handout on the Activity Time Line, chose a planet to
research, and find out who else has the same planet. Students should go over and discuss the Planetary Brochure Outline and the Planetary Charts handouts before beginning research on their planet. They are to research and record the information necessary for the handouts to be completed. Students are to read the online links about the history of the space program. Students should write down the resources and turn in a bibliography of sources used. When all information is obtained, the students are to complete their planetary brochure. Students are then to get with their team members and complete the design for a mission to explore their planet in the future. Students are to share their brochures and give a presentation to their classmates about future plans for a space mission to their planet.
ASSESSMENTS GUIDELINES:
Before Work Begins: During the Project: After project completed:
Brainstorming Anedotal notes Reflective questions for Planetary Webquest
Journaling Journaling Activity Scoring Rubrics:
KWL Activity Timeline Rubric I: Planetary Travel Brochure
Planetary Brochure Outline Rubric II: Design for Future Mission to the Planet
Planetary Chart Handout Peer Assessment Colleration Rubric
Feel free to modify this WebQuest for your classroom, but please link back for the original.
ONLINE RESOURCES
Star Child: Space Stuff
ThinkQuest: The Exploration of Space
eThemes
PhotoGallery: Spacecraft
National Geographic: 40th Anniversity
National Space Society
National Geographic: Solar System
NASA: Exploring the Planets
NASA: Solar System Exploration
The Planets and Dwarf Planets
Enchanted Learning: Planets with Graphs
View of the Solar System
Welcome to the Planets
OFFLINE RESOURCES:
Earth in Space Student Guide and Source Book
Developer: National Science Resource Center
Publisher: Carolina Biological Supply Company
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plantary_brochure_outline.pdf | |
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planetary_chart.pdf | |
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space_and_the_planets__timeline___________________________name.pdf | |
File Size: | 95 kb |
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