To Mars and Beyond
Theme: Space
Grade: 7-9
Introduction
The future of space travel and colonisation may seem like science fiction, but right now scientists are developing new technologies and inventions to make travel to Mars a reality. Do you think this is good thing? What would it take to live on Mars - you will look at the human components of space colonisation and exploration by determining the types of people and jobs needed to run a colony on another planet. You will examine the infrastructure of a space colony and also think about the social structures—laws, rules, and government—needed for successful colonisation.
Task
You are part of a NASA team planning for the first human colony on Mars. A great deal of work is needed to pull this together. To complete this assignment your team will conduct research in order to nswer the following questions :
1. What type of settlement is most practical-one on the planet itself or one that is in orbit around Mars?
2. What is needed to get the colony up and running? You must decide what kind of equipment the colonists will need. You also need to figure out how to provide the colonists with the resources that they will need-food and water, for example.
3. What kinds of jobs are needed to run the colony? Make a list of personnel and jobs for the Mars colony.
You and your team will create a PowerPoint presentation to NASA officials that will illustrate your recommendations. The presentation should persuade the officials that your team can establish a successful colony on Mars. Use PowerPoint's multimedia features, including sound and transitions, to present your report clearly and effectively.
Process
For this assignment, you will work in teams of four and you will divide your task into roles as follows (click on each role for more information):
Conclusion
You have spent the last few lessons being very creative in your thinking. At the same time you have had the opportunity to think deeply about practical issues, governance and personal qualities of people with the kind of character that would survive on Mars. All things are connected, and you will have seen this basic ecological principle in action during this project.
