NASA
Parachute Design
Bring the science of space exploration to the classroom. Young learners explore the mechanics of the parachute-landing mechanisms on the Mars Rover. They design and build their own parachute models and test their ability to land a probe...
NASA
Make a Planetary Exploration Balloon
Balloons aren't just for parties! An inquiry-based lesson explores the idea of using balloons for space exploration. Learners become engineers as they attempt to control the ascent and descent of a helium balloon using different masses.
NASA
Code a Mars Sample Collection Video Game
Video game designer meets science in a lesson examining the science of space exploration. Young learners use online software to create a video game that mimics the process of sample collection on Mars. They must make appropriate...
Curated OER
Elements of Physics: Motion, Force and Gravity
Students research about different human space explorations conducted by NASA. In this physical science lesson, students discuss why space exploration is important. They write a paper about their thoughts on continuing NASA's space...
Curated OER
Science - Space Exploration
Young scholars select astronaut to research, create poster including biographical information about each astronaut, and build 3-D model of their craft.
Curated OER
Get the Picture!
Astronomers practice downloading data from a high-energy satellite and translate the data into colored or shaded pixels. As a hands-on activity, they use pennies to simulate high-energy satellite data and they convert their penny...
Curated OER
Single Event Upsets in Aircraft Avionics
In this aircraft avionics worksheet, science fans read about the first unmanned air vehicle that collects data about the Earth and is subject to damage by cosmic ray showers. Pupils analyze two graphs of data showing the neutron flux vs....
Curated OER
Designing a Crew Exploration Vehicle
Take your class on an out-of-this-world adventure with this fun engineering design lesson. Working in small groups, young scientists design, build, and test crew exploration vehicles using some creativity, teamwork, and an assortment of...
Growing Classroom
Space Travelers
Groups of three scientists from the rocky planet Zog investigate the composition of soil so that they can take the information back to their home, create soil there, and begin to grow food.
Curated OER
Space Tourism Brochure
Students create travel brochures to advertise the concept of space travel to tourists. They conduct Internet research on tourism in space, and produce a brochure to help someone plan a vacation in space.
Curated OER
Space: NASA's Frontier
Students research the history and accomplishments of the American space program and ponder its role in the future. They gather research on NASA and make small group presentations to the class on their findings and assessments.
Curated OER
"Space" Exploration
Fourth graders identify the attribute of volume of an object. Units of measurement are reviewed and utilized in this instructional activity.
Curated OER
Space: Your Future Frontier?
Students explore careers in space and experience how math and science concepts are applied in the space program through an interactive video and cooperative group activities.
Curated OER
Reading: Living in Space
In this living in space reading activity, students read a passage about life on the International Space Station written by a former astronaut. Students then answer 6 multiple choice questions.
Curated OER
Living In Space
In this reading comprehension activity, students read a short text about living in space. Students then answer 6 multiple choice questions about the story.
Curated OER
Doctor Mae C. Jemison - First African American Woman in Space
Seventh graders trace and analyze the life of Doctor Mae C. Jemison and the circumstances that enabled Dr. Jemison to achieve her goal of becoming an astronaut. They explore the role of NASA in the development of America's Space Shuttle...
Curated OER
NASA, Impact on Space
Learners examine the work of NASA. In this space exploration lesson, students watch "1958: Project Mercury Begins." Learners then view a PowerPoint presentation about the history of NASA and research each of the manned space programs.
DiscoverE
Design a Folding Solar Panel
Solar energy is an amazing alternative ... but, not always particularly portable! Challenge young scientists to a folding solar panel build-off with an easy-to-execute activity. Scholars brainstorm around specific design needs, construct...
Teach Engineering
Six Minutes of Terror
Help your class understand the design challenges when trying to land a remote spacecraft on a planet. Class members examine the provided information to understand how each component of a spacecraft is designed in order to safely land a...
NASA
Radiation Shielding on Spacecraft
Here is a terrific science lesson for your elementary schoolers. In it, learners analyze different materials to simulate space radiation shielding on spacecraft, then select the best material to use to build one. This is a classic...
John F. Kennedy Library Foundation
JFK Challenge
And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country. And so begins your invigorating, innovative learning experience in the JFK Challenge app! Learners choose from two "missions" and...
NASA
NASA
Everything you have ever wanted to know about our solar system, space exploration, and more can be found here. Be prepared to clear your schedule; you will be sucked into the app like a star into a black hole.
Curated OER
Reach for the Stars
Students consider the significance of space exploration. In this space science lesson, students visit selected websites to discover information about astronomy, lunar missions, and space travel. Students discuss the value of space...
Curated OER
Motion, Force, and Gravity
High schoolers write a research paper about human space travel. In this space travel lesson, students watch a video and research issues related to space travel. They use their research to write a paper about whether human space travel...