Mission Library

Mars Storm Chasers
Weather and Living Things
Grades 4-12

The Mission
41 min

Storyline

Created in collaboration with the National 4-H Association

In response to a massive storm raging across Mars, students will investigate three disasters and determine how to reduce the effects of the storm.

We have received multiple distress calls from our Mars colonies and are sent to investigate. Storms have been raging across the planet, and are not only causing damage to the colonies, but also interfering with the scheduled cargo delivery that is already en route. After arriving at Mars, the crew will work through three different scenarios to help counteract and react to the effects of the storms.

3-Dimensional Science

Science and Engineering Practices

Asking Questions and Defining Problems

Identifying issues caused by storms, such as structural damage, animal containment, and communication breakdowns.

Planning and Carrying Out Investigations

Scanning storm patterns, evaluating colony conditions, and assessing potential threats.

Analyzing and Interpreting Data

Using data from scans to understand storm dynamics, animal behavior changes, and colony damage.

Developing and Using Models

Using models to determine travel routes, animal containment, and bee shipment decisions based on storm patterns and potential outcomes.

Crosscutting Concepts

Cause and Effect

The storms cause disruptions such as damage to buildings, animals breaking free, and communication difficulties, prompting the need for decisions.

Scale, Proportion, and Quantity

The crew must make decisions about how many animals to relocate, which facility to send bees to, and whether to allow or restrict travel based on the scale of the challenges.

Systems and System Models

The functioning of colonies and their responses to storms involve interconnected systems, including power, transportation, animal containment, and communication.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

ESS2: Earth’s Systems

Analyzing storm phenomena, their impact on colonies, and how colonies respond to mitigate damage.

LS1.A: Structure and Function

Studying colony structures, animal containment systems, and communication networks to address storm-related challenges.

LS2.A: Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems

Exploring how storms affect animal behavior, containment strategies, and food supply within colonies.

ETS1: Engineering Design

Designing solutions to relocate animals, decide on travel restrictions, and choose bee shipment facilities based on storm-related conditions.

Resources
Timeline
Skills in Action