Intergalactic Planetary

Evidence of Work:

Models 1-3 are in my academic portfolio on campus and inaccessible due to the outbreak. Models 4 and 5 are pictured above.

This project was a very interesting one. One great part of it was the modeling cycle. For the models we had to learn how to create as detailed as possible models. It was pretty hard to draw all of the planets due to their massive size. It was also difficult because their scale was so different. We also had to learn about proper modeling Ex: labeling, scale, etc. The hardest part of the models were the predictions. We had to predict a characteristic about the planet using two of its factors. For example: orbital velocity and mass. Overall the modeling cycle was by far the hardest part of this project.

Content:

• Proficiency Scale

Gravity and Orbits

Prioritized Standard: Use mathematical representations of Newton’s Law of Gravitation to describe and predict the gravitational forces between objects. (HS-PS2-4)

Use mathematical or computational representations to predict the motion of orbiting objects in the solar system. (HS-ESS1-4)

The COMPLEX content

Demonstrates in-depth infererences or applications that go beyond what was taught, for example:

• I can estimate orbital location at a specific time based on initial velocity and gravitational force using an equation I created and a vector diagram.
• I can modify my model based on new information and explain the limits of my model’s predictive power.

The TARGET content

• I can predict and calculate the force of gravity between objects by using Newton’s Law of Gravitation

F = Gm1m2r2

• I can model the motion of orbiting objects in the solar system using equations and math from Kepler’s Laws to predict location, velocity, or acceleration at a given time.

The SIMPLE content

I can:

• Accurately use vocabulary: gravitational force, orbit, radius, orbital period, orbital velocity, distance to sun
• Know meanings of variables F, G, m, r and their relative scale.
• Multiply and divide numbers in scientific notation.
• Select relevant data from planetary data to determine patterns and develop an orbital model.

Beginning Understanding

• With help, I can perform some of the simple and target content expectations.

Reflection

Overall this project was a very short, but very informative and fun too. I learned that I actually really enjoy the study of space. I think it is very interesting, and mysterious at the same time. Two things I want to keep working on for the next project are my collaboration and critical thinking. I want to collaborate more with my group more because at this moment in time I take more control then the rest of my group mates and don't listen to their ideas enough. I would like to take their ideas in to account, and try them out. I would also like to not be in control as much and let my group mates take over more. I want to be more of a critical thinker because right now, I do before I think. I have an idea and I use that idea before I provide any evidence. I want to gather evidence and prove my claim before I share it. Overall this project has been very fun. I learned a lot about space, modeling, and team work.