Mission Library

Shakedown
The Solar System
3rd Grade

The Mission
34 min

Storyline

With a ship lost in space and its controls going haywire, the crew must apply their knowledge of the solar system to analyze clues to find the ship before it's too late.

Throughout the mission, the crew will use their knowledge of the planets in the solar system to follow the clues to where Mela has been.

3-Dimensional Science

Phenomenon

The planets in our solar system can be identified by their characteristics and position in relation to the Sun.

Science and Engineering Practices

Asking Questions and Defining Problems

The crew faces the problem of locating Mela's ship and recovering her research data.

Planning and Carrying Out Investigations

The crew uses scanning equipment to locate Mela's ship and its reactor core.

Analyzing and Interpreting Data

The crew analyzes images and communications logs to identify the correct planet where Mela is heading.

Engaging in Argument from Evidence

The crew discusses and debates the correct planet where Mela is headed based on evidence from images and communications.

Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information

The crew communicates with each other and with Mela to coordinate the rescue mission.

Crosscutting Concepts

Cause and Effect

The crew's actions and decisions have consequences on the mission's success, such as locating Mela's ship and recovering her research.

Systems and System Models

The solar system and its various planets and moons are part of a complex system that the crew navigates through during the mission.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

ESS1.A: The Universe and Its Stars

The crew navigates the solar system, encounters different celestial bodies, and identifies planets.

ESS1.C: The History of Planet Earth

The crew learns about Venus's past, where it once had water but experienced a runaway greenhouse effect.

Resources
Timeline
Skills in Action