Introduction
In this lesson you introduce your students to the M.A.R.S. mission. Raise student motivation and keep it high throughout the entire experience by setting the stage for your live simulation. Use the PowerPoint^® presentation provided as a tool to introduce the scenario to your students. By completing this activity, your students will learn about the context of the M.A.R.S. mission and will be given an overview of the roles they will have on mission day.

Duration

10-15 minutes: Preparation time for teacher

20 minutes: Implement lesson

Vocabulary

density: the amount per unit size.

hematite: the principal form of iron ore; consists of ferric oxide in crystalline form; occurs in a red, earthy form.

hydrogen: the simplest, lightest, and most abundant element in the universe;  one of the elements that form water.

mass spectrometer: device used to identify minerals from a distance; obtains a mass spectrum by deflecting ions into a thin slit and measuring the ion current with an electrometer.

Reconnaissance: the exploration or examination of an area, especially to gather information about the geography, water resources, or similar information

simulation: an imitation of a real event that allows participants to experience an activity in a safe environment.

Materials

• Mission Briefing PowerPoint

• A computer connected to a projector to display the PowerPoint

• A screen for projecting the presentation

Teacher Preparation

1. Read the Mission Scenario and Mission Briefing PowerPoint® to become oriented with the M.A.R.S. mission.

2. Read and become familiar with the vocabulary section of this lesson.

3. Set up a computer, projector, and screen to present the PowerPoint.

Procedure

1. To get students thinking about the mission, ask the following questions:

   • What is a simulation? A simulation is an imitation of a real event that allows participants to experience an activity in a safe environment.

   • How are simulations used? Simulations are used to help people prepare for emergencies and to teach them how to react in real-life situations. In simulations people can make mistakes in a safe environment and learn from them.

   • What are some ways in which we can prepare for our simulation? The class can practice the math skills they will encounter in the mission and practice the jobs they will have on mission day.

2. Introduce the vocabulary words to the students and discuss the meanings.

3. Show the PowerPoint presentation to your students.

4. Allow time for questions and discussion.

Discussion Tips
The main idea they should get from this lesson is that they are going to be part of a simulation that has a specific storyline. Discussion of the storyline will create the context for all of the facts and concepts to which they will be introduced.

Special Comments
This class is one of the most important in terms of student motivation. As the “movie director,” you set the scene, create the story, and help your “actors” prepare for their roles.