About this resource
SpaceX has contacted you to help them solve problems so humans can live on Mars. Using the invention process, you will explore solutions to potential problems of the Mars mission. After analysis of the project and the solutions, provide feedback to SpaceX on the ethical decisions surrounding humans living on Mars.
You will research inventions and innovations made to space travel technologies developed by NASA. You will then use the invention process to identify challenges getting humans to Mars and research any inventions that help place humans on Mars.
After completing your research, including identifying any problems and redesigns you may encounter, prepare a presentation to share with your peers and any stakeholders.
Modifications for all Learners: Instead of creating prototypes with household objects, use the computer to design a model.
Curriculum & Standards
Related General Curriculum / Common Core Area
Technology/Engineering/Math/Writing
Related Curriculum / Common Core Standard
AASL Main Standard(s): III. COLLABORATE Work effectively with others to broaden perspectives and work toward common goals. A. Think - Learners identify collaborative opportunities by: 2. Developing new understandings through engagement in a learning group. 3. Deciding to solve problems informed by group interaction.
V. EXPLORE Discover and innovate in a growth mindset developed through experience and reflection. B. Create - Learners construct new knowledge by: 1. Problem solving through cycles of design, implementation, and reflection. 2. Persisting through self-directed pursuits by tinkering and making
Related STEM Area: Science/Technology/Engineering
NGSS Main Related Engineering Design Standard:
HS-ETS1-1. Analyze a major global challenge to specify qualitative and quantitative criteria and constraints for solutions that account for societal needs and wants. HS-ETS1-2. Design a solution to a complex real-world problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable problems that can be solved through engineering.
MS-ETS1-3. Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions to identify the best characteristics of each that can be combined into a new solution to better meet the criteria for success.
What students will do
- I will use the inquiry process to identify potential problems, solutions, and hazards to landing on Mars.
- I will communicate my findings to my peers.
- I will explore inventions and innovations that will help people land on Mars.
- I will create inventions to help land people on Mars.
I can use the inquiry process to identify potential problems, solutions, and hazards to landing on Mars.
I can communicate my findings to my peers.
I can explore inventions and innovations that will help people land on Mars.
I can create inventions to help land people on Mars.
Resources Needed
Science notebook, Internet access, paper, pencils, household objects.
How learning is assessed
- I used the inquiry process to identify potential problems, solutions, and hazards to landing on Mars.
- I communicated my findings to my peers.
- I explored inventions and innovations that will help people land on Mars.
- I created inventions to help land people on Mars.