About This Lesson
Subjects
- Design
- Engineering
- Technology
Time
- 45-60 minutes
Skills
- Creativity
- Arts and Crafts
- Teamwork
- Problem-Solving
- Critical-Thinking
Learning Objective/Goal:
- Students will learn what is needed for survival in other environments such as Mars and create a bae design to meet these needs.
- Students will work together in teams and as a whole group to construct a Mars Base with the necessary components for human survival
Materials Needed:
- Paper (preferably Graph Paper)
- Writing Utensils (preferably multiple colors)
- Scissors
- Glue or Tape
Background
- Mars presents numerous obstacles to human habitation, including its thin atmosphere, extreme temperatures, and high levels of radiation. Designing a habitat capable of protecting astronauts from these harsh conditions while supporting their essential needs for life and research is crucial.
Activity
Introduction
- Show Students this video on the Mars environment and potential base design already in development that they could potentially use and discuss what may be important in a Mars module.
- Ask questions such as
- What are the challenges of living on Mars (e.g., atmosphere, temperature, radiation)?
- What are the essential elements of a Mars base (e.g., living quarters, labs, power sources)?
Explaining the activity
- Divide students into groups or individuals and assign each a section of the station, varying by group and class size.
- Have students design a floor plan for each module, including doors, furniture, appliances, hallways, and other Mars-based items.
- Remind students to consider functionality and Mars' harsh environment, and emphasize that all bases will be combined, encouraging cross-group collaboration.
Potential Modules
- •Habitat Module •Science Laboratory •Kitchen/Living Module •Greenhouse •Utilities (plumbing, electrical, utilities) •Medical Lab •Bathroom •Airlock •Excersie Module/Gym •Robots/Rover Bay •Weather Station •Rocketship Dock
Final Design:
- Once students are finished designing their modules, arrange and attach all designed modules.
- Remind students that they can create tunnels or connective modules if parts don't fit.
- Allow time for final touches (pathways, solar panels, etc.) and tape the final module.
Reflection:
- Have students think about their base designs and overall work as a team.
- Ask them questions such as
- What was the most challenging part of the design process?
- How did they solve design problems?
- What did they learn about collaboration and teamwork?
Extra
Tips for Students:
- Research Mars Conditions: Understand Mars' challenges to design effectively.
- Collaborate Effectively: Work closely with your group to integrate module designs.
- Innovate and Problem-Solve: Be creative while addressing practical Mars base needs.
Tips for Teachers:
- Provide Resources: Offer materials on Mars habitats for student exploration.
- Facilitate Group Dynamics: Guide balanced group formation and communication.
- Encourage Critical Thinking: Prompt students to think critically about design implications.
Extension Activities:
- Create a 3D model of the Mars base using recycled materials.
- Give a detailed presentation of their complete base with the features and how it would resolve problems related to living on Mars
- Compare and contrast their base to real concepts or ideas for bases currently in development
References & Further Research
