Mission Library

Pushing and Pulling
Forces and Motion
Kindergarten


The Mission
22 min

Storyline

The crew will use their knowledge of pushing and pulling to help Dr. Marvin place satellites back into the correct orbit.

The crew will need to determine whether the satellite needs to be pushed or pulled to get in the right orbit. Then, with a second satellite, students will watch footage of it being pushed into position. They'll need to conclude that what went wrong then correct its position.

3-Dimensional Science

Phenomenon

Pushing and pulling forces affect the movement and behavior of objects.

Science and Engineering Practices

Planning and Carrying Out Investigations

The crew analyzes the satellite's positions and orbital paths, determining whether pushing or pulling is required to restore them.

Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

The crew uses the tractor beam and defense systems to push and pull the satellites, finding solutions to align them correctly.

Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information

The crew watches footage to analyze and understand what went wrong in previous attempts, informing their decision-making.

Crosscutting Concepts

Cause and Effect

The crew explores the consequences of pushing and pulling the satellites, observing how the direction and force applied affect their positions.

Systems and System Models

The crew uses the tractor beam and defense systems as models to interact with and manipulate the satellites.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

ETS1.A: Defining and Delimiting Engineering Problems

The crew identifies the problem of misaligned satellites and works on solutions to restore their proper positions.

PS2.B: Types of Interactions

The crew engages in interactions with the satellites using the tractor beam and defense systems to exert forces and move them.

PS3.C: Relationship Between Energy and Forces

The crew utilizes non-explosive energy bursts and the tractor beam's energy to push and pull the satellites.

Resources
Targeted Standards
Timeline
Skills in Action