Mission Library

Extraction
Information Transfer
4th Grade


The Mission
45 min

Storyline

The crew will use data to design a method for getting an extraction plan to Cobalt without being detected.

Cobalt and Leon are undercover investigating a new scrap metal operation on Skline. We need to get Cobalt out ASAP as suspicion of him is increasing. The crew will design a way to use patterns to communicate extraction details to Cobalt without being discovered by Scorpio and his surveillance guards. Students will need to decode and encode messages to Cobalt from Mission Command.

3-Dimensional Science

Science and Engineering Practices

Asking Questions and Defining Problems

  • Identify scientific (testable) and non-scientific (nontestable) questions.

  • Ask questions that can be investigated and predict reasonable outcomes based on patterns such as cause and effect relationships.

  • Define a simple design problem that can be solved through the development of an object, tool, process, or system and includes several criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.

Developing and Using Models

  • Develop a model using an analogy, example, or abstract representation to describe a scientific principle or design solution.

  • Develop a diagram or simple physical prototype to convey a proposed object, tool, or process.

Planning and Carrying Out Investigations

  • Test two different models of the same proposed object, tool, or process to determine which better meets criteria for success.

Analyzing and Interpreting Data

  • Compare and contrast data collected by different groups in order to discuss similarities and differences in their findings.

  • Analyze data to refine a problem statement or the design of a proposed object, tool, or process.

  • Use data to evaluate and refine design solutions.

Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking

  • Organize simple data sets to reveal patterns that suggest relationships.

Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

  • Use evidence (e.g., measurements, observations, patterns) to construct or support an explanation or design a solution to a problem.

  • Generate and compare multiple solutions to a problem based on how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the design solution.

Engaging in Argument from Evidence

  • Make a claim about the merit of a solution to a problem by citing relevant evidence about how it meets the criteria and constraints of the problem.

  • Compare and refine arguments based on an evaluation of the evidence presented.

Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information

  • Read and comprehend grade appropriate complex texts and/or other reliable media to summarize and obtain scientific and technical ideas and describe how they are supported by evidence.

  • Combine information in written text with that contained in corresponding tables, diagrams, and/or charts to support the engagement in other scientific and/or engineering practices.

Crosscutting Concepts

Patterns

Students identify similarities and differences in order to sort and classify natural objects and designed products. They can identify patterns related to time, including simple rates of change and cycles, and to use these patterns to make predictions.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

PS4.B: Electromagnetic Radiation

Objects can be seen only when light reflected from their surface enters our eyes. Patterns can encode, send, receive, and decode information.

PS4.C: Information Technologies and Instrumentation

Objects can be seen only when light reflected from their surface enters our eyes. Patterns can encode, send, receive, and decode information.

Resources
Targeted Standards
Timeline
Skills in Action