Introduction
Students will explore the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) of space exploration.
The resource covers three sections of a Mars mission: Launch, Landing and Life on Mars. Students will learn about designing an aerodynamic nose cone for launch, how to create heat shields to protect spacecraft on re-entry and how to grow food in Martian soil.
Curriculum links
| ACTIVITY | KEY STAGE | SUBJECT | NATIONAL CURRICULUM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch Crew |
KS3 | Mathematics | Solving problems ratio, proportion and rates of change Geometry and measure |
| Launch Aerodynamics |
KS3 | Science | Experimental skill and investigation Forces and motion |
| Landing Gravity |
KS3 | Mathematics Science |
Algebra Space physics |
| Landing Heat shield |
KS3 | Science Design and technology |
Experimental skills and investigation Energy changes and transfers Energy in matter Evaluate |
| Life on Mars Taste in Space |
KS3 | Science | Experimental skills and investigation |
| Life on Mars Food on Mars |
KS3 | Science | Experimental skills and investigation Photosynthesis Relationships in an ecosystem |
| Presentation activity | KS3 | Science Mathematics Design & technology |
The student will use the information and ideas gathered from these activities to present an answer to the big question: How will engineers make it possible to live on other planets? |