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All grades  Project 6 weeks

"Mission: Martian Mayhem!"

Elizabeth D
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.1
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.4
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.5
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.6
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.8
+ 7 more
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Purpose

In this project, students will delve into the ethical and practical challenges of colonizing Mars through the lens of "The Martian." By engaging in debates, multimedia presentations, and reflective discussions, students will enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The project aims to deepen students' understanding of the environmental impact and human implications of space colonization, fostering a sense of identity and belonging as they collaboratively tackle complex questions relevant to their future and the broader community.

Learning goals

Students will explore the ethical and practical implications of colonizing Mars through reading "The Martian" and other sources, enhancing their critical thinking and persuasive writing skills. They will engage in collaborative problem-solving activities to simulate survival scenarios, fostering teamwork and resource management abilities. By reflecting on their learning journey, students will strengthen self-directed learning skills, using peer and teacher feedback to refine their understanding of space colonization challenges.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.1 - Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.4 - Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.5 - With some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach, focusing on how well purpose and audience have been addressed.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.6 - Use technology, including the Internet, to produce and publish writing and link to and cite sources as well as to interact and collaborate with others, including linking to and citing sources.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.8 - Gather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources, using search terms effectively; assess the credibility and accuracy of each source; and quote or paraphrase the data and conclusions of others while avoiding plagiarism and following a standard format for citation.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.10 - Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.1 - Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.7.4 - Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative, connotative, and technical meanings; analyze the impact of a specific word choice on meaning and tone.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.7.7 - Compare and contrast a text to an audio, video, or multimedia version of the text, analyzing each medium's portrayal of the subject (e.g., how the delivery of a speech affects the impact of the words).
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 multimedia presentation that captures the journey and challenges of colonizing Mars, integrating research and creative storytelling inspired by "The Martian." This presentation will be showcased in a classroom exhibition, inviting peers and educators to explore the ethical implications of space colonization. Additionally, students will participate in a 'Mars Debate' to demonstrate their critical thinking and persuasive skills, using evidence from their research and experiences. These products will reflect the students' understanding and engagement with the project's essential question and learning objectives.

Launch

Kick off the project with a 'Mars Survival Workshop' tailored for ELA 7 students, incorporating elements from "The Martian" to explore survival scenarios on Mars. Engage students in interactive activities that simulate resource management, problem-solving, and teamwork, drawing parallels to the challenges faced by characters in the book. This immersive experience will spark curiosity about the ethical and practical implications of colonizing Mars, while encouraging students to reflect on their roles and responsibilities within their team.

Exhibition

Students will host a Mars-themed exhibition where they present their multimedia projects, focusing on the challenges and ethical considerations of colonizing Mars as explored through "The Martian." The exhibition will include interactive stations, such as a Mars Debate corner, where students engage visitors in discussions about the pros and cons of space colonization. Attendees can explore students' reflections and insights shared during the 'Mars Reflection Circle,' displayed creatively in journals and digital stories. The event will culminate in a collaborative Mars Survival Workshop demonstration, showcasing students' problem-solving and resource management skills in simulated scenarios.