Mars One: A 4th Grade Quest to Colonize Mars
Inquiry Framework
Question Framework
Driving Question
The overarching question that guides the entire project.How can we, as 4th-grade WGES QUEST learners acting as interdisciplinary experts, evaluate the Mars One plan for sustained human presence on Mars, addressing overlooked vital information related to resources, habitat design, health, psychology, technology, and evidence-based habitability, and then persuade experts of our findings?Essential Questions
Supporting questions that break down major concepts.- What are the essential resources for human survival on Earth and how might those differ on Mars?
- How can we use mathematical ratios and scaling to design sustainable habitats for a specific number of colonists?
- In what ways does the extreme environment of Mars (e.g., temperature, radiation, atmosphere) pose challenges to human physical and mental health?
- What are the key psychological and social considerations for a small, isolated colony on Mars, and how can we design systems to promote well-being and prevent conflict?
- How can we use persuasive writing and visual communication to present our findings and recommendations to a panel of experts?
- What existing technologies could be adapted or improved to address the challenges of living on Mars, and what new innovations are needed?
- How do scientists use evidence to support claims about the habitability of other planets, and how can we apply those methods to evaluate the Mars One plan?
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 resources necessary for human survival on Mars.
- Students will be able to apply mathematical ratios and scaling to design sustainable habitats for a specific number of colonists.
- Students will be able to analyze the challenges posed by the Martian environment to human physical and mental health.
- Students will be able to evaluate psychological and social considerations for a small, isolated colony on Mars and propose solutions to promote well-being.
- Students will be able to use persuasive writing and visual communication to present findings and recommendations to experts.
- Students will be able to assess existing technologies and propose innovations needed for living on Mars.
- Students will be able to apply scientific methods to evaluate the habitability of Mars and the Mars One plan.
Entry Events
Events that will be used to introduce the project to students'Martian Survival Kit Challenge'
Each student receives a limited set of everyday items and must justify how these could be adapted for survival on Mars, considering the planet's unique conditions. This hands-on activity introduces resourcefulness and connects to the project's problem-solving focus.'Dear Earth' - A Colonist's Plea
Students read a fictional letter from a Mars One colonist detailing unexpected hardships and asking for specific help from Earth. This personal narrative encourages empathy and identifies key areas where the Mars One plan might be lacking.The 'Failed Mission' Simulation
Students participate in a brief simulation of a Mars mission that encounters a critical, unforeseen obstacle (e.g., radiation spike, equipment malfunction). They must brainstorm immediate solutions, highlighting the importance of adaptability and thorough planning.'Martian Time Capsule' Debate
Students are tasked with selecting five items to include in a time capsule representing Earth culture for future Martian colonists, justifying each choice based on its practical or psychological value. This activity encourages critical thinking about human needs and cultural adaptation in a new environment.The Mysterious Radio Signal from Mars
Students receive a garbled audio transmission, supposedly from Mars One, hinting at an unforeseen problem. Analyzing the signal (using sound editing software or a provided transcript) sparks inquiry into potential challenges of Martian colonization and verifies student interest.Portfolio Activities
Portfolio Activities
These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.Resource Reconnaissance: The Martian Essentials
Students embark on a research mission to identify the critical resources necessary for human survival on Mars. This activity focuses on understanding basic needs and how they translate to the Martian environment.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA detailed 'Martian Resource Inventory' presented as a report or infographic.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: 'Students will be able to research and identify the resources necessary for human survival on Mars.'Habitat Harmony: Martian Home Design
Students apply mathematical ratios and scaling to design sustainable habitats for a specific number of colonists. This activity emphasizes spatial reasoning and resource management within a confined environment.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA scaled habitat design blueprint with calculations and justifications for space allocation.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: 'Students will be able to apply mathematical ratios and scaling to design sustainable habitats for a specific number of colonists.'Health Hazard Analysis: The Martian Body & Mind
Students analyze the challenges posed by the Martian environment to human physical and mental health, focusing on the physiological and psychological impacts of extreme conditions.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA 'Martian Health and Well-being Plan' report with research-based recommendations.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: 'Students will be able to analyze the challenges posed by the Martian environment to human physical and mental health.'Colony Culture: Martian Society Builders
Students evaluate psychological and social considerations for a small, isolated colony on Mars and propose solutions to promote well-being and prevent conflict, emphasizing community dynamics and conflict resolution.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA 'Martian Colony Code of Conduct' document with justifications for each rule and mechanism.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: 'Students will be able to evaluate psychological and social considerations for a small, isolated colony on Mars and propose solutions to promote well-being.'Tech Transformation: Martian Innovation Lab
Students assess existing technologies and propose innovations needed for living on Mars, focusing on adapting Earth-based solutions for the Martian environment and identifying gaps in current technology.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA 'Martian Innovation Portfolio' showcasing adapted and newly designed technologies with explanations of their functionality and benefits.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: 'Students will be able to assess existing technologies and propose innovations needed for living on Mars.'Evidence Examination: Martian Habitation Analysis
Students apply scientific methods to evaluate the habitability of Mars and the Mars One plan, focusing on evidence-based reasoning and critical assessment of claims.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA 'Martian Habitability Report' with evidence-based conclusions and recommendations.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: 'Students will be able to apply scientific methods to evaluate the habitability of Mars and the Mars One plan.'Persuasion Powerhouse: Martian Pitch to the Experts
Students use persuasive writing and visual communication to present findings and recommendations to experts, emphasizing clear articulation of ideas and compelling presentation of evidence.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA persuasive presentation delivered to a panel of experts, accompanied by a written summary of findings.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal: 'Students will be able to use persuasive writing and visual communication to present findings and recommendations to experts.'Rubric & Reflection
Portfolio Rubric
Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolioMars One Feasibility Study Rubric
Resource Assessment
Evaluates the student's ability to identify, research, and assess the availability of essential resources for human survival on Mars.Resource Identification
Accuracy and completeness in identifying essential resources (water, food, air, shelter, energy).
Exemplary
4 PointsIdentifies all essential resources with detailed justifications for their importance in the Martian context. Goes beyond basic needs to consider nuanced requirements.
Proficient
3 PointsIdentifies most essential resources with clear justifications. Demonstrates a good understanding of basic needs.
Developing
2 PointsIdentifies some essential resources, but justifications may be incomplete or lack detail. Shows a basic awareness of human needs.
Beginning
1 PointsStruggles to identify essential resources or provide relevant justifications. Demonstrates limited understanding of basic needs.
Martian Availability Research
Thoroughness and accuracy in researching the availability of identified resources on Mars.
Exemplary
4 PointsConducts in-depth research, providing specific evidence from credible sources regarding the availability of each resource on Mars. Explores multiple potential sources and challenges.
Proficient
3 PointsConducts thorough research, providing evidence from credible sources regarding the availability of each resource on Mars.
Developing
2 PointsConducts basic research, but evidence may be limited or from less credible sources. Some resources may be missing research data.
Beginning
1 PointsDemonstrates minimal research effort, with little or no evidence provided. Relies on unsupported claims or irrelevant information.
Inventory Detailing
Clarity, organization, and detail in presenting the 'Martian Resource Inventory'.
Exemplary
4 PointsPresents a meticulously organized and highly detailed 'Martian Resource Inventory', including acquisition/production methods and potential substitutes. The inventory is visually appealing and easy to understand.
Proficient
3 PointsPresents a well-organized and detailed 'Martian Resource Inventory', including acquisition/production methods and potential substitutes.
Developing
2 PointsPresents a 'Martian Resource Inventory' with some organization, but details may be lacking. Acquisition/production methods or substitutes may be missing.
Beginning
1 PointsPresents a poorly organized and incomplete 'Martian Resource Inventory'. Lacks essential details and is difficult to understand.
Habitat Design
Evaluates the student's ability to apply mathematical ratios and scaling to design sustainable habitats for Martian colonists.Space Requirement Determination
Accuracy and justification of space requirements per colonist for different activities.
Exemplary
4 PointsAccurately determines space requirements per colonist with detailed and well-reasoned justifications, considering diverse needs (physical, psychological, social).
Proficient
3 PointsAccurately determines space requirements per colonist with clear justifications for different activities.
Developing
2 PointsDetermines space requirements per colonist, but justifications may be vague or incomplete. Some activities may be overlooked.
Beginning
1 PointsStruggles to determine space requirements or provide relevant justifications. Demonstrates limited understanding of spatial needs.
Mathematical Scaling
Correct application of ratios and scaling to calculate total habitat area and volume.
Exemplary
4 PointsApplies ratios and scaling flawlessly to calculate total habitat area and volume. Shows a deep understanding of mathematical concepts and their application to real-world problems. Calculations are meticulously documented and easy to follow.
Proficient
3 PointsApplies ratios and scaling correctly to calculate total habitat area and volume.
Developing
2 PointsApplies ratios and scaling with some errors, but demonstrates a basic understanding of the concepts. Calculations may be unclear or incomplete.
Beginning
1 PointsStruggles to apply ratios and scaling. Calculations are incorrect or missing.
Habitat Layout Design
Functionality, sustainability, and innovation in the habitat layout design.
Exemplary
4 PointsPresents a highly functional, sustainable, and innovative habitat layout that seamlessly integrates living quarters, resource production areas, waste recycling systems, and communal spaces. Design considers accessibility, energy efficiency, and psychological well-being.
Proficient
3 PointsPresents a functional and sustainable habitat layout that incorporates living quarters, resource production areas, waste recycling systems, and communal spaces.
Developing
2 PointsPresents a habitat layout with some functionality, but sustainability may be limited. Some essential areas may be missing or poorly integrated.
Beginning
1 PointsPresents a poorly designed and incomplete habitat layout. Lacks essential areas and demonstrates little understanding of sustainability.
Health & Well-being Analysis
Evaluates the student's ability to analyze the challenges posed by the Martian environment to human physical and mental health.Environmental Impact Research
Thoroughness and accuracy in researching the effects of the Martian environment on the human body.
Exemplary
4 PointsConducts comprehensive research, providing detailed and accurate information on the effects of low gravity, radiation exposure, extreme temperatures, and atmospheric differences on the human body. Connects these effects to specific physiological systems.
Proficient
3 PointsConducts thorough research, providing accurate information on the effects of low gravity, radiation exposure, extreme temperatures, and atmospheric differences on the human body.
Developing
2 PointsConducts basic research, but information may be incomplete or lack detail. Some environmental factors may be overlooked.
Beginning
1 PointsDemonstrates minimal research effort, with little or no accurate information provided. Relies on unsupported claims or irrelevant information.
Psychological Challenge Investigation
Depth and insight in investigating the psychological challenges of isolation and confinement.
Exemplary
4 PointsInvestigates the psychological challenges of isolation, confinement, and long-duration space travel with exceptional depth and insight. Explores complex issues such as group dynamics, cultural adaptation, and the potential for mental health problems.
Proficient
3 PointsInvestigates the psychological challenges of isolation, confinement, and long-duration space travel with clear understanding and relevant details.
Developing
2 PointsInvestigates the psychological challenges of isolation and confinement, but analysis may be superficial or lack detail. Some challenges may be overlooked.
Beginning
1 PointsDemonstrates minimal understanding of the psychological challenges of isolation and confinement. Provides little or no relevant information.
Well-being Plan Development
Effectiveness and feasibility of the 'Martian Health and Well-being Plan'.
Exemplary
4 PointsDevelops a highly effective and feasible 'Martian Health and Well-being Plan' outlining innovative strategies for mitigating health risks. The plan integrates physical, mental, and social well-being with concrete, actionable recommendations.
Proficient
3 PointsDevelops a 'Martian Health and Well-being Plan' outlining effective strategies for mitigating health risks.
Developing
2 PointsDevelops a 'Martian Health and Well-being Plan' with some strategies for mitigating health risks, but effectiveness or feasibility may be limited.
Beginning
1 PointsDevelops a poorly conceived and incomplete 'Martian Health and Well-being Plan'. Lacks essential strategies and demonstrates little understanding of health risks.
Social Dynamics & Governance
Evaluates the student's ability to address psychological and social considerations for a small, isolated colony on Mars and propose solutions to promote well-being.Conflict Source Identification
Comprehensiveness in identifying potential sources of conflict in a Martian colony.
Exemplary
4 PointsIdentifies a comprehensive range of potential sources of conflict in a Martian colony, including resource scarcity, personality clashes, differing values, and power dynamics. Demonstrates a deep understanding of human behavior in isolated environments.
Proficient
3 PointsIdentifies potential sources of conflict in a Martian colony, including resource scarcity, personality clashes, and differing values.
Developing
2 PointsIdentifies some potential sources of conflict in a Martian colony, but analysis may be limited or incomplete. Some key sources may be overlooked.
Beginning
1 PointsDemonstrates minimal understanding of potential sources of conflict. Provides little or no relevant information.
Strategy Research
Relevance and applicability of researched strategies for promoting social cohesion.
Exemplary
4 PointsResearches highly relevant and applicable strategies for promoting social cohesion, communication, and conflict resolution in isolated environments, drawing from diverse sources (e.g., Antarctic research stations, submarines, intentional communities). Adapts these strategies innovatively to the Martian context.
Proficient
3 PointsResearches relevant strategies for promoting social cohesion, communication, and conflict resolution in isolated environments.
Developing
2 PointsResearches strategies for promoting social cohesion, but relevance or applicability may be limited. Some strategies may be impractical or poorly suited to the Martian context.
Beginning
1 PointsDemonstrates minimal research effort. Strategies are irrelevant or unsupported by evidence.
Code of Conduct Design
Clarity, comprehensiveness, and enforceability of the 'Martian Colony Code of Conduct'.
Exemplary
4 PointsDesigns a highly clear, comprehensive, and enforceable 'Martian Colony Code of Conduct' outlining rules, norms, and dispute resolution mechanisms. The code is tailored to the unique challenges of Martian colonization and promotes fairness, equity, and psychological well-being.
Proficient
3 PointsDesigns a 'Martian Colony Code of Conduct' outlining rules, norms, and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Developing
2 PointsDesigns a 'Martian Colony Code of Conduct' with some rules and norms, but clarity or enforceability may be limited. Dispute resolution mechanisms may be underdeveloped.
Beginning
1 PointsDesigns a poorly conceived and incomplete 'Martian Colony Code of Conduct'. Lacks essential rules and demonstrates little understanding of social dynamics.
Technological Adaptation & Innovation
Evaluates the student's ability to assess existing technologies and propose innovations needed for living on Mars.Technology Research
Breadth and depth of research on existing technologies relevant to Martian colonization.
Exemplary
4 PointsConducts extensive research on existing technologies relevant to Martian colonization (e.g., life support systems, robotics, 3D printing), demonstrating a deep understanding of their functionality and limitations. Explores cutting-edge advancements and emerging technologies.
Proficient
3 PointsConducts thorough research on existing technologies relevant to Martian colonization.
Developing
2 PointsConducts basic research on some existing technologies, but scope may be limited. Some key technologies may be overlooked.
Beginning
1 PointsDemonstrates minimal research effort. Technologies are irrelevant or poorly understood.
Adaptation/Improvement Proposals
Feasibility and creativity in proposing adaptations or improvements to existing technologies.
Exemplary
4 PointsProposes highly feasible and creative adaptations or improvements to existing technologies, addressing specific limitations in the Martian environment. Justifications are well-supported by scientific evidence and engineering principles.
Proficient
3 PointsProposes feasible adaptations or improvements to existing technologies.
Developing
2 PointsProposes some adaptations or improvements, but feasibility or creativity may be limited. Justifications may be weak or incomplete.
Beginning
1 PointsProposes poorly conceived or impractical adaptations. Demonstrates little understanding of technological limitations.
Innovation Design
Originality, functionality, and potential impact of newly designed technologies.
Exemplary
4 PointsDesigns highly original, functional, and impactful new technologies to address specific challenges of Martian colonization (e.g., radiation shielding, in-situ resource utilization). Designs are well-documented and demonstrate a deep understanding of scientific principles.
Proficient
3 PointsDesigns new technologies to address specific challenges of Martian colonization.
Developing
2 PointsDesigns some new technologies, but originality or functionality may be limited. Designs may be incomplete or poorly documented.
Beginning
1 PointsDesigns poorly conceived or impractical technologies. Demonstrates little understanding of technological needs.
Habitability Evidence Evaluation
Evaluates the student's ability to apply scientific methods to evaluate the habitability of Mars and the Mars One plan.Scientific Evidence Research
Thoroughness and relevance of research on scientific evidence related to Martian habitability.
Exemplary
4 PointsConducts thorough and relevant research on scientific evidence related to the habitability of Mars (e.g., presence of water, soil composition, atmospheric conditions), citing credible sources and demonstrating a deep understanding of scientific concepts.
Proficient
3 PointsConducts thorough research on scientific evidence related to the habitability of Mars.
Developing
2 PointsConducts basic research on some scientific evidence, but scope may be limited. Some key evidence may be overlooked.
Beginning
1 PointsDemonstrates minimal research effort. Evidence is irrelevant or poorly understood.
Mars One Plan Evaluation
Critical analysis of the Mars One plan based on scientific evidence.
Exemplary
4 PointsProvides a highly critical and insightful analysis of the Mars One plan based on scientific evidence, identifying both strengths and weaknesses in their approach. Demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of scientific methodology and evidence-based reasoning.
Proficient
3 PointsProvides a critical analysis of the Mars One plan based on scientific evidence.
Developing
2 PointsProvides a basic analysis of the Mars One plan, but analysis may be superficial or lack detail. Some key strengths or weaknesses may be overlooked.
Beginning
1 PointsProvides a poorly reasoned or unsupported analysis of the Mars One plan. Demonstrates little understanding of scientific evidence.
Alternative Solution Proposals
Creativity and feasibility of proposed alternative solutions.
Exemplary
4 PointsProposes highly creative and feasible alternative solutions to address weaknesses in the Mars One plan. Solutions are well-justified and demonstrate a deep understanding of scientific and engineering principles.
Proficient
3 PointsProposes alternative solutions to address weaknesses in the Mars One plan.
Developing
2 PointsProposes some alternative solutions, but creativity or feasibility may be limited. Justifications may be weak or incomplete.
Beginning
1 PointsProposes poorly conceived or impractical solutions. Demonstrates little understanding of the challenges of Martian colonization.
Persuasive Communication
Evaluates the student's ability to use persuasive writing and visual communication to present findings and recommendations to experts.Argument Synthesis
Effectiveness in synthesizing findings into a cohesive argument.
Exemplary
4 PointsSynthesizes findings from previous activities into a highly cohesive and compelling argument for or against the feasibility of the Mars One plan. The argument is logically structured, well-supported by evidence, and demonstrates a deep understanding of the project's central themes.
Proficient
3 PointsSynthesizes findings into a cohesive argument for or against the feasibility of the Mars One plan.
Developing
2 PointsSynthesizes some findings, but the argument may be fragmented or lack coherence. Evidence may be poorly integrated.
Beginning
1 PointsFails to synthesize findings into a coherent argument. Demonstrates little understanding of the project's central themes.
Presentation Design
Clarity, visual appeal, and persuasiveness of the presentation.
Exemplary
4 PointsCreates a highly clear, visually appealing, and persuasive presentation (e.g., slideshow, video, mockumentary) that effectively communicates key findings and recommendations. The presentation is engaging, informative, and tailored to the target audience.
Proficient
3 PointsCreates a persuasive presentation that highlights key findings and recommendations.
Developing
2 PointsCreates a presentation with some visual appeal, but clarity or persuasiveness may be limited. Some key findings may be poorly communicated.
Beginning
1 PointsCreates a poorly designed and ineffective presentation. Lacks clarity, visual appeal, and persuasiveness.
Delivery & Feedback
Effectiveness in delivering the presentation and responding to feedback.
Exemplary
4 PointsDelivers the presentation with confidence and clarity, effectively engaging the audience and responding thoughtfully to feedback. Demonstrates strong communication skills and a willingness to learn from criticism.
Proficient
3 PointsDelivers the presentation effectively and responds to feedback.
Developing
2 PointsDelivers the presentation with some clarity, but may struggle to engage the audience or respond effectively to feedback.
Beginning
1 PointsDelivers the presentation poorly and struggles to respond to feedback. Demonstrates weak communication skills.