What can the study of planets and moons in our solar system teach us about the potential for life beyond Earth?
Critical Thinking: Evaluate data from planetary missions and research.
Communication: Articulate ideas about potential life in our solar system through presentations.
Global Citizenship: Consider the implications of discovering life beyond Earth.
What are the key characteristics that make a planet or moon potentially habitable?
How do scientists search for signs of life on other planets and moons?
What discoveries in our solar system suggest the possibility of life beyond Earth?
Identify and explain the conditions necessary for life on other celestial bodies.
Analyze methods used to search for extraterrestrial life.
Present findings on recent discoveries related to habitability in the solar system.
Research Skills: Ability to gather and evaluate information about planetary characteristics and habitability.
Analytical Skills: Analyze scientific data related to potential life-supporting environments on other celestial bodies.
Critical Thinking: Make connections between scientific theories and real-world discoveries.
Communication: Present findings on planetary environments and the potential for extraterrestrial life effectively.
HS-ESS1-3: Communicate scientific ideas about the way stars, over their life cycle, produce elements.
HS-ESS1-6: Apply scientific reasoning and evidence from ancient Earth materials, meteorites, and other planetary surfaces to construct an account of Earth's formation and early history.
Books:
"The Planets" by Dava Sobel: Offers insights into each planet's unique features and their role in the solar system.
"Packing for Mars" by Mary Roach: Explores the quirky and complex aspects of space exploration.
Websites:
NASA's Solar System Exploration: Provides extensive resources on planetary science and exploration missions.
The European Space Agency (ESA): Offers educational materials and updates on space missions.
Online Tools:
NASA's Eyes on the Solar System: A tool for virtually exploring planets and moons.
Stellarium: An app for observing celestial bodies and understanding their movements.
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