Explore The Planets
You have discovered some planets using the "moving star" method, and then identified them with digital images from Solar System probes. Next you need to find out what information is already known about your planets. After that you will work in your groups to plan a business venture....an interplanetary travel company. Your planet just may become the next "in" destination for the adventurous tourist who is looking for an experience that is a little unusual. The Solar System Tours handout will explain your final project in greater detail.
Activities
Day
1
Form interdisciplinary teams
In your group each student will assume the role of a project specialist: Astronomer, Meteorologist, Geologist, and Historian. Each project specialist will research his or her field of expertise and keep notes. This is the day you will also decide on which planet you will be researching
Day
2, 3, and 4
Research your planet
Using your project specialist handout and your Planet Data worksheet as a guide, research your planet. Keep in mind, there is more than enough data to assist you. What you need to do is make sure the data is organized for easy reference later on. You will have 3 class periods to complete you research. Please use the time given to you wisely.
Day 4 and
5
Create travel brochures
The next two class periods your group will be creating a travel brochure promoting your planet as a vacation paradise. All materials will be supplied for you except the planet data and your imagination. Have a BLAST!
Days 6 and 7
Give Planetary Tours Presentations
You
will have only 10 minutes for your presentation. Make sure everyone in
your group has a role to play in the presentation. Reminder:
Consult your Solar System Tours handout to review what needs to be covered
during your presentation. Also, all presentations will be
videotaped!! Have fun with this presentation! Be creative and
innovative!
Kennedy Middle School
El Centro, CA 92243