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8th Grade  Project 2 weeks

Planetary Wonders: Unveil Your Cosmic Quest!

Gurleen K
MS-ESS1-3
MS-ESS1-3
MS-ESS3-3
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

Incorporating the book "Hail Mary" as a creative lens, students will explore the concept of extraterrestrial life and its potential connection to their assigned planet. This project invites students to apply scientific principles and imagination, analyzing planetary data while considering the implications of alien existence. By integrating literary elements, students will deepen their understanding of planetary environments and their potential to support life, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving. Through this engaging exploration, students will refine their ability to interpret data and develop innovative environmental solutions.

Learning goals

Students will analyze and interpret data to understand the scale properties of their chosen planet, aligning with NGSS MS-ESS1-3, incorporating insights from the book "Hail Mary" to explore the concept of alien life. They will apply scientific principles to propose methods for monitoring and minimizing human impact on the environment, as per NGSS MS-ESS3-3. Throughout the project, students will engage in self-directed learning, using feedback for self-reflection and growth. They will cultivate an academic mindset by establishing a sense of place and identity related to their planet. Additionally, students will employ critical thinking and problem-solving skills to explore the potential for life and the unique characteristics of their planet.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-ESS1-3 - Analyze and interpret data to determine scale properties of objects in the solar system.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-ESS1-3 - Analyze and interpret data to determine scale properties of objects in the solar system.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-ESS3-3 - Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will create a visually engaging fact sheet or poster that showcases their research on the chosen planet, integrating an introduction to aliens inspired by the book "Hail Mary" to creatively explore the potential for life. The project will highlight key aspects such as size, orbit, atmosphere, surface temperature, moons or rings, and space missions. Throughout the project, students will maintain a research journal documenting their findings, reflections, and feedback received. Additionally, they will participate in a collaborative presentation where they share their insights and propose innovative methods to monitor and minimize human impact on their planet's environment, fostering a deeper understanding of planetary science and environmental stewardship.

Launch

Kick off the project with a "Galactic Discovery Day" inspired by the book "Hail Mary," where students are introduced to the concept of extraterrestrial life. Begin with a dramatic reading or short video clip from the book to spark curiosity. Then, students rotate through interactive stations, each representing a different planet, with activities like virtual reality tours and atmospheric simulations. This launch sets the stage for students to delve into their assigned planet's characteristics, considering its potential to support life and drawing connections to the book's themes.

Exhibition

Students will create an engaging, interactive science fair-style exhibition where they present their fact sheets or posters about their chosen planet. Each display will incorporate elements from the book "Hail Mary" to creatively introduce the concept of alien life and its potential interaction with their assigned planet. Students will use visual aids, models, and digital presentations to illustrate their planet's characteristics and potential for supporting life, inviting peers, teachers, and family members to explore and discuss these unique features.
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