Create a Mission Patch

Lesson Title: Mission Patch Design: Exploring Space through Art

Grade Level: Middle School (Grades 6-8)

Duration: 2 class periods (45-50 minutes each)

Objectives:

• Students will learn about the history and significance of NASA mission patches.

• Students will analyze and interpret various NASA mission patches.

• Students will apply their understanding of symbolism, color, and design to create their own mission patch for a hypothetical moon mission.

Materials Needed:

• Projector or smartboard for presentation

• Images of various NASA mission patches (e.g., Apollo, Space Shuttle, Artemis)

• Paper and pencils for sketching

• Colored pencils, markers, or other art supplies

• Computers or tablets with internet access (optional for research)

• Printed handout with key elements to include in a mission patch

Lesson Procedure:

Day 1: Exploration and Analysis

• Introduction (10 minutes):

  • Begin by asking students what they know about NASA and space missions. Introduce the concept of mission patches and explain their purpose and significance in space exploration history.

• Presentation and Discussion (20 minutes):

  • Show a presentation featuring several NASA mission patches from different eras (e.g., Apollo 11, STS-1, Artemis I). Discuss the elements in each patch, such as symbols, colors, and text. Ask students to interpret what they think each element represents.

    1. Mission Patch Example STS-103

    2. Mission Patch Example STS-109

    3. Apollo Mission Patches

    4. Space Shuttle STS-102

• Group Analysis Activity (15 minutes):

  • Divide students into small groups. Provide each group with images of different mission patches. Ask them to analyze the patches and discuss what the elements might symbolize. Encourage them to think about the mission goals, the era it took place, and the astronauts involved.

• Class Sharing (5 minutes):

  • Have each group share their interpretations and findings with the class. Highlight any interesting or unique observations.

Day 2: Creation and Presentation

• Brainstorming Session (10 minutes):

  • Have students brainstorm ideas for a hypothetical moon mission. What is the mission's goal? Who is involved? What are the key themes or elements they want to represent?

• Designing the Patch (25 minutes):

  • Distribute art supplies and hand out a sheet with key elements to include in a mission patch (e.g., mission name, symbolism, colors). Allow students time to sketch and then create their mission patch. Encourage creativity and originality. More Information

• Peer Review (10 minutes):

  • Once students have completed their designs, have them pair up with a partner to review each other’s patches. They should provide constructive feedback and discuss the symbolism in their designs.

• Presentation and Reflection (5 minutes):

  • Allow students who wish to share their mission patches with the class. Discuss the different approaches and creativity in the designs.

• Homework/Extension (optional):

  • Students can research an actual NASA mission and design a patch that could represent that mission, considering its objectives and achievements.

Assessment:

• Participation in discussions and group activities.

• Analysis of existing mission patches.

• Creativity and thoughtfulness in designing their own mission patch.

• Ability to explain the symbolism and elements in their patch design.

Modifications for Online Learning:

• The lesson can be adapted for online learning. Use a virtual classroom platform for presentations and discussions.

• Students can work in virtual breakout rooms for group activities.

• Mission patch designs can be created using digital drawing tools or by hand and then shared through the platform.

This lesson not only educates students about NASA and space exploration but also encourages creativity and critical thinking through the lens of art and design.