Life on Mars: A Search for New Home
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Life on Mars: A Search for New Home

Grade 7ScienceMathEnglishTechnologySocial Studies30 days
In this project, 7th-grade students investigate the possibility of life on Mars, considering its potential as a new home due to Earth's depleting resources. They explore the conditions necessary for life, analyze evidence from Mars missions, and design technological solutions for inhabiting the planet. Students also debate the ethical considerations of colonization and assess the economic and social implications of space exploration, relating Martian research to understanding and protecting Earth.
Mars ExplorationHabitabilityTechnological SolutionsEthical ColonizationSpace ExplorationEarth PreservationMars Missions
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Inquiry Framework

Question Framework

Driving Question

The overarching question that guides the entire project.Considering the potential depletion of Earth's resources and the evidence suggesting Mars may have once supported life, how can we ethically and sustainably utilize technology to explore and potentially inhabit Mars, while also understanding the economic, social, and environmental implications for both planets?

Essential Questions

Supporting questions that break down major concepts.
  • What are the conditions necessary for life to exist?
  • What evidence do we have that suggests Mars may have once supported life, or could potentially support life in the future?
  • What are the challenges of traveling to and living on Mars?
  • How can we use technology to explore and potentially inhabit Mars?
  • What are the ethical considerations of colonizing another planet?
  • How does the study of Mars help us better understand Earth and the importance of protecting our own planet?
  • What are the economic and social implications of space exploration and potential colonization?

Standards & Learning Goals

Learning Goals

By the end of this project, students will be able to:
  • Students will be able to research and identify the conditions necessary for life to exist.
  • Students will analyze evidence suggesting that Mars may have once supported life or could potentially support life in the future.
  • Students will evaluate the challenges of traveling to and living on Mars.
  • Students will design and propose technological solutions for exploring and potentially inhabiting Mars.
  • Students will debate the ethical considerations of colonizing another planet.
  • Students will investigate how the study of Mars helps us better understand Earth and the importance of protecting our own planet.
  • Students will assess the economic and social implications of space exploration and potential colonization.

Entry Events

Events that will be used to introduce the project to students

Mysterious Signal from Mars

A coded message is received from the surface of Mars. Students must work together, using their STEM skills, to decipher the message and determine its meaning, sparking their curiosity about the possibility of life on Mars and the challenges of communication across vast distances.
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Portfolio Activities

Portfolio Activities

These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.
Activity 1

Mars: Past, Present, and Future Potential

Students delve into the geological and atmospheric history of Mars, examining evidence that suggests the planet may have once been habitable or could be made habitable in the future. They will analyze data from Mars missions and compare it to Earth.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research: Investigate past and current Mars missions (e.g., Curiosity, Perseverance) and their findings related to water, atmosphere, and potential biosignatures.
2. Data Analysis: Analyze images, graphs, and data collected from Mars missions, focusing on evidence of past or present water, organic molecules, or other signs of potential habitability.
3. Comparative Analysis: Compare and contrast the current and historical conditions on Mars with those on Earth, identifying similarities and differences relevant to habitability.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA comparative report analyzing the habitability of Mars, supported by evidence from Mars missions.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: 'Students will analyze evidence suggesting that Mars may have once supported life or could potentially support life in the future.'
Activity 2

Red Planet Roadblocks: The Challenges of Martian Life

This activity focuses on the practical and scientific challenges of traveling to and living on Mars, including radiation exposure, extreme temperatures, and resource scarcity. Students will explore potential solutions to these challenges.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Identify Challenges: Create a list of the major challenges to human life on Mars (e.g., radiation, temperature, atmosphere, food/water scarcity).
2. Research Solutions: Research existing and proposed technologies and strategies to overcome these challenges (e.g., radiation shielding, habitat design, resource utilization).
3. Problem-Solving: For one specific challenge, brainstorm and propose innovative solutions, considering feasibility and cost.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA presentation outlining the challenges of living on Mars and proposing solutions.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: 'Students will evaluate the challenges of traveling to and living on Mars.'
Activity 3

Martian Tech Innovations: Designing for Survival

Students will design a technological solution to address one of the challenges of living on Mars. This activity encourages creative problem-solving and the application of scientific principles to real-world scenarios.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Select a Challenge: Choose one specific challenge of living on Mars (e.g., water scarcity, food production, radiation exposure).
2. Design a Solution: Design a technology or system to address the selected challenge, considering materials, energy requirements, and effectiveness.
3. Create a Prototype or Model: Develop a physical or digital model of the proposed solution, along with a detailed explanation of its function.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA prototype or detailed design of a technology for living on Mars.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: 'Students will design and propose technological solutions for exploring and potentially inhabiting Mars.'
Activity 4

Ethics of Exploration: The Martian Colonization Debate

Students will engage in a debate about the ethical considerations of colonizing Mars, considering issues such as planetary protection, resource allocation, and the potential impact on indigenous life (if any).

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research Ethical Issues: Research the ethical considerations surrounding space colonization, including planetary protection, resource allocation, and potential impacts on existing life.
2. Prepare Arguments: Divide into groups representing different perspectives (e.g., pro-colonization, anti-colonization, environmental protection) and prepare arguments to support their position.
3. Participate in a Debate: Engage in a structured debate, presenting arguments and rebuttals to defend their position on the ethical implications of colonizing Mars.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityParticipation in a structured debate about the ethical considerations of colonizing Mars.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: 'Students will debate the ethical considerations of colonizing another planet.'
Activity 5

Mars as a Mirror: Understanding Earth Through Martian Exploration

Students will explore how studying Mars helps us better understand Earth's climate, geology, and potential future. They will investigate how the lessons learned from Mars can inform our efforts to protect our own planet.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research: Investigate how studying Mars' climate, geology, and history provides insights into Earth's own processes and potential future.
2. Case Studies: Examine case studies of how Martian research has contributed to our understanding of climate change, resource management, or other environmental issues on Earth.
3. Action Plan: Develop an action plan for applying the lessons learned from Mars to address environmental challenges on Earth.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityAn action plan for applying lessons learned from Mars to address environmental challenges on Earth.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: 'Students will investigate how the study of Mars helps us better understand Earth and the importance of protecting our own planet.'
Activity 6

Space Economics & Society: The Martian Frontier

Students will analyze the economic and social implications of space exploration and potential colonization, considering factors such as resource extraction, job creation, and the development of new social structures.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research: Investigate the potential economic benefits and costs of space exploration and colonization, including resource extraction, technological innovation, and job creation.
2. Social Structures: Explore the social challenges and opportunities presented by establishing a new society on Mars, including governance, social equity, and cultural diversity.
3. Policy Proposal: Develop a policy proposal outlining a framework for the economic and social development of a Martian colony, considering sustainability, ethical considerations, and the well-being of its inhabitants.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA policy proposal outlining a framework for the economic and social development of a Martian colony.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: 'Students will assess the economic and social implications of space exploration and potential colonization.'
Activity 7

Life's Blueprint: Defining Habitable Conditions

Students will begin by exploring the fundamental conditions necessary for life as we know it. This activity sets the stage for comparing Earth and Mars and understanding what makes a planet habitable.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Brainstorm: In small groups, students brainstorm what all living things need to survive (e.g., water, atmosphere, energy source).
2. Research: Students research the scientific definitions of habitability, focusing on factors like temperature range, atmospheric pressure, and chemical elements.
3. Create a 'Habitability Checklist': Compile a list of essential conditions for life, including specific ranges or requirements for each factor.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA detailed 'Habitability Checklist' with specific conditions necessary for life.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: 'Students will be able to research and identify the conditions necessary for life to exist.'
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Rubric & Reflection

Portfolio Rubric

Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolio

Life on Mars Portfolio Rubric

Category 1

Understanding Habitability

Demonstrates understanding of the conditions necessary for life and the scientific definition of habitability.
Criterion 1

Habitability Checklist

Accuracy and completeness of the 'Habitability Checklist', including specific conditions necessary for life.

Exemplary
4 Points

The 'Habitability Checklist' is exceptionally detailed, accurate, and scientifically sound, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the conditions necessary for life.

Proficient
3 Points

The 'Habitability Checklist' is detailed, accurate, and scientifically sound, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the conditions necessary for life.

Developing
2 Points

The 'Habitability Checklist' includes some essential conditions for life but may lack detail or accuracy in certain areas.

Beginning
1 Points

The 'Habitability Checklist' is incomplete, inaccurate, or lacks scientific basis, demonstrating a limited understanding of the conditions necessary for life.

Category 2

Analysis of Martian Habitability

Analysis of the habitability of Mars, supported by evidence from Mars missions.
Criterion 1

Comparative Report

Quality of the comparative report analyzing the habitability of Mars, including the use of evidence from Mars missions.

Exemplary
4 Points

The comparative report provides a sophisticated and insightful analysis of the habitability of Mars, supported by compelling evidence from multiple Mars missions. Demonstrates innovative application of concepts.

Proficient
3 Points

The comparative report provides a thorough analysis of the habitability of Mars, supported by clear evidence from Mars missions. Shows effective critical thinking.

Developing
2 Points

The comparative report provides a basic analysis of the habitability of Mars, but the evidence from Mars missions may be limited or not clearly linked to the analysis.

Beginning
1 Points

The comparative report is incomplete, lacks analysis, or provides little to no evidence from Mars missions. Struggles with concept application.

Category 3

Challenges and Solutions for Martian Life

Evaluation of the challenges of traveling to and living on Mars, and proposed solutions.
Criterion 1

Presentation of Challenges and Solutions

Clarity and feasibility of the presentation outlining the challenges of living on Mars and proposing solutions.

Exemplary
4 Points

The presentation clearly articulates the challenges of living on Mars and proposes innovative and well-reasoned solutions, demonstrating a deep understanding of the complexities involved.

Proficient
3 Points

The presentation clearly outlines the challenges of living on Mars and proposes feasible solutions, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the issues.

Developing
2 Points

The presentation identifies some of the challenges of living on Mars and proposes solutions, but the solutions may be incomplete or lack feasibility.

Beginning
1 Points

The presentation is unclear, incomplete, or fails to adequately address the challenges of living on Mars or propose viable solutions.

Category 4

Technological Innovation for Martian Survival

Design of a technological solution to address a challenge of living on Mars.
Criterion 1

Prototype/Model and Explanation

Quality and functionality of the prototype or detailed design of a technology for living on Mars, along with the clarity of its explanation.

Exemplary
4 Points

The prototype or detailed design is innovative, functional, and well-explained, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the scientific principles involved and an exceptional ability to apply them to a real-world problem.

Proficient
3 Points

The prototype or detailed design is functional and clearly explained, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the scientific principles involved and an ability to apply them to a real-world problem.

Developing
2 Points

The prototype or detailed design shows some functionality but may be incomplete or lack a clear explanation of the scientific principles involved.

Beginning
1 Points

The prototype or detailed design is non-functional, poorly explained, or demonstrates a limited understanding of the scientific principles involved.

Category 5

Ethical Considerations of Martian Colonization

Engagement in a debate about the ethical considerations of colonizing Mars.
Criterion 1

Debate Participation

Quality of participation in a structured debate about the ethical considerations of colonizing Mars.

Exemplary
4 Points

The student demonstrates exceptional critical thinking and communication skills, presenting well-reasoned arguments and rebuttals that reflect a deep understanding of the ethical complexities of Martian colonization. Exhibits leadership in collaborative settings.

Proficient
3 Points

The student actively participates in the debate, presenting clear and well-reasoned arguments and rebuttals that demonstrate a thorough understanding of the ethical considerations of Martian colonization.

Developing
2 Points

The student participates in the debate but may struggle to articulate clear arguments or rebuttals, or demonstrate a complete understanding of the ethical considerations.

Beginning
1 Points

The student's participation in the debate is minimal, lacking in clarity, or fails to address the ethical considerations of Martian colonization.

Category 6

Earth-Mars Connection: Lessons for Our Planet

Application of lessons learned from Mars to address environmental challenges on Earth.
Criterion 1

Action Plan

Feasibility and potential impact of an action plan for applying lessons learned from Mars to address environmental challenges on Earth.

Exemplary
4 Points

The action plan is highly innovative, feasible, and has the potential for significant positive impact on addressing environmental challenges on Earth, demonstrating a deep understanding of the connections between Martian research and terrestrial issues.

Proficient
3 Points

The action plan is feasible and has the potential for positive impact on addressing environmental challenges on Earth, demonstrating a clear understanding of the connections between Martian research and terrestrial issues.

Developing
2 Points

The action plan identifies some potential actions for addressing environmental challenges on Earth, but may lack feasibility or a clear connection to lessons learned from Mars.

Beginning
1 Points

The action plan is vague, infeasible, or fails to connect lessons learned from Mars to environmental challenges on Earth.

Category 7

Economic & Social Implications

Analysis of the economic and social implications of space exploration and potential colonization
Criterion 1

Policy Proposal

A policy proposal outlining a framework for the economic and social development of a Martian colony, considering sustainability, ethical considerations, and the well-being of its inhabitants.

Exemplary
4 Points

The policy proposal is comprehensive, innovative, and ethically sound, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the economic and social complexities of establishing a sustainable and equitable Martian colony.

Proficient
3 Points

The policy proposal is well-reasoned, feasible, and considers the key economic and social aspects of establishing a Martian colony.

Developing
2 Points

The policy proposal identifies some of the economic and social considerations for a Martian colony, but may lack detail, feasibility, or ethical considerations.

Beginning
1 Points

The policy proposal is incomplete, lacks economic and social analysis, or fails to address sustainability or ethical considerations.

Reflection Prompts

End-of-project reflection questions to get students to think about their learning
Question 1

Reflecting on our exploration of life on Mars, what is the single most important thing you learned about the conditions necessary for life to exist, and how might that knowledge influence our search for life beyond Earth?

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Question 2

Throughout our project, we've examined the potential of Mars to support life, both past and future. Now, consider Earth. What is one thing we could learn from Mars that could help us preserve life on our own planet?

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Question 3

Imagine you are addressing a group of world leaders. Based on what you've learned, what is the most pressing ethical consideration regarding the exploration and potential colonization of Mars that they need to address?

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Question 4

On a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being 'not at all' and 5 being 'very much,' how much did your understanding of the challenges and opportunities of space exploration change as a result of this project?

Scale
Required
Question 5

Which activity (Mars: Past, Present, and Future Potential; Red Planet Roadblocks; Martian Tech Innovations; Ethics of Exploration; Mars as a Mirror; Space Economics & Society; Life's Blueprint) was the most impactful for you, and why?

Multiple choice
Required
Options
Mars: Past, Present, and Future Potential
Red Planet Roadblocks: The Challenges of Martian Life
Martian Tech Innovations: Designing for Survival
Ethics of Exploration: The Martian Colonization Debate
Mars as a Mirror: Understanding Earth Through Martian Exploration
Space Economics & Society: The Martian Frontier
Life's Blueprint: Defining Habitable Conditions