our place in space

Overview: Students take part in a variety of activities, pose questions, watch videos, research the library and the internet, and use computer simulations in order that they have a sound understanding of their place in space. In teams, they design a Moon Base as a major assignment and present to the class.

Author(s): Mike Roach

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Band: Middle Years

Strand: Earth and Space

Duration: Approximately 5 weeks

Published: July 2002

Financial assistance for the development of this resource was provided by The National Quality Teacher Program

Context: This unit is suitable for year 8 students, but has been used in year 9 classes. Many resources are available via internet.

Key Idea: Students select and use observational instruments and digital electronic technologies to develop understandings about structures and events in the universe. They appraise and share opinions about the ethics of space exploration.
Elements of the SACSA Framework
Essential Learnings
Key Competencies
Outcome (SACSA Standards)
Futures                                                 

Thinking

Link to SACSA Essential Learnings

3: Planning and organising

4: Team work

6: Solving problems

List all Key Competencies

Standard Outcome 3: Describes various components of the solar system and the effects on our everyday lives.

Standard Outcome 4: Investigates and analyses astronomical features and changes as seen from the earth and debates the ways scientists examine and explain these.
© South Australian Science Teachers Association Inc. 2002