Mars Storm Chasers Weather and Living ThingsGrades 4-12
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.
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.