Should we be afraid of a large asteroid impact on Earth today? Young scientists estimate the size and composition of an asteroid similar to the one that caused the K-T mass extinction. They apply algebraic formulas to answer questions before having a discussion about the assumptions and conclusions the data help them reach.

Concepts

asteroids, meteors, the stratosphere

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Pre-teach parts per notation before working through the rest of the lesson

Classroom Considerations

• Relies on prior knowledge of algebra, solving for volume and surface area of spheres, scientific notation, metric units, and density
• Lesson works as an extension to the short film The Day the Mesozoic Died, but stands alone if needed

Pros

• Provides two versions, one with guided calculations and the other without
• Designed to connect math and science concepts

Cons

• None

Common Core

HSN-Q.A.1 HSA-SSE.A.1.a HSA-CED.A.4 RST.9-10.1 RST.9-10.4 RST.9-10.8 RST.11-12.1 RST.11-12.4 RST.11-12.8 WHST.9-10.1.a WHST.11-12.1.a MP4