Lesson Plan | Technical Methodology | Life Beyond Earth

Objectives

Duration: (10 - 15 minutes)

This stage of the lesson plan aims to situate students in the context of the theme 'Life outside of Earth', highlighting the importance of developing essential practical and analytical skills for understanding the subject. Additionally, it seeks to connect the content with the job market, showing the relevance of astrobiology and space sciences in various scientific and technological careers.

Main Objectives

1. Understand the possible scientific and theoretical arguments for the existence of life outside of Earth.

2. Identify the essential conditions for the development of life, such as water, air composition, and other environmental factors.

Side Objectives

1. Develop critical analysis skills when evaluating different theories and evidence.
2. Stimulate curiosity and interest in astrobiology and space sciences.

Introduction

Duration: (10 - 15 minutes)

This stage serves to awaken students' interest and curiosity about the theme 'Life outside of Earth'. By connecting the content with recent discoveries and job market opportunities, it aims to show the relevance and impact of the subject in their lives and future careers.

Contextualization

Since ancient times, humanity has questioned the existence of life beyond Earth. With advancements in technology and space sciences, this question has gained new dimensions. The discovery of water on Mars and missions to explore icy moons of Jupiter and Saturn are examples of how we are closer to answering this intriguing question. Understanding the conditions necessary for life and the environments where it might exist helps us better understand our own planet and explore the frontiers of the unknown.

Curiosities and Market Connection

Astrobiology is an emerging field that combines biology, chemistry, physics, and astronomy to study the possibility of life beyond Earth. Companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin are heavily investing in space exploration, creating new career opportunities in areas such as aerospace engineering, biotechnology, and scientific research. The notion of terraforming, or the possibility of transforming other planets to sustain life, is a concept that is moving from science fiction to being seriously considered by scientists and engineers.

Initial Activity

Design a short video (3-5 minutes) about recent discoveries of water on Mars and current missions to explore other moons and planets. After the video, ask the provocative question: 'If we find life on another planet, how would that change our view of humanity's place in the universe?' Encourage students to share their opinions and expectations about the discovery of extraterrestrial life.

Development

Duration: 55 - 60 minutes

The purpose of this stage is to deepen students' knowledge about the theme 'Life outside of Earth' through practical and reflective activities. Students will be encouraged to apply theories and concepts in a realistic and collaborative context, developing critical and creative skills that are valuable in both academia and the job market.

Covered Topics

1. Essential Conditions for Life: Water, Air Composition, and Temperature
2. Recent Discoveries about Water on Mars and Other Moons
3. Theories about the Existence of Extraterrestrial Life
4. Astrobiology: The Study of Life in the Universe
5. Space Exploration and Career Opportunities

Reflections on the Theme

Guide students to reflect on how the discovery of life beyond Earth could impact our society, culture, and even our beliefs. Facilitate a discussion about the importance of exploring space and understanding the conditions that allow for the existence of life. Encourage them to think about the ethical and philosophical implications of these discoveries.

Mini Challenge

Mini Challenge: Research Station Design on Mars

Students will be divided into groups and challenged to create a model of a research station on Mars, considering the conditions necessary to sustain life. They should use recyclable and easily accessible materials to build the model.

Instructions

1. Divide the class into groups of 4 to 5 students.
2. Distribute recyclable materials such as bottles, cardboard boxes, aluminum foil, and others.
3. Explain that each group must create a model of a research station that can sustain life on Mars, taking into account the need for water, air, and controlled temperature.
4. Encourage students to be creative and think of innovative solutions to the challenges a station on Mars would face.
5. After construction, each group should present their model to the class, explaining how it works and how it meets the basic needs for life.

Objective: Develop practical construction and teamwork skills, as well as apply knowledge about the necessary conditions for life beyond Earth.

Duration: 40 - 45 minutes

Evaluation Exercises

1. List three essential conditions for life and explain why each one is important.
2. Describe a recent discovery regarding the presence of water on Mars or another moon in our solar system.
3. Explain what astrobiology is and how it contributes to the search for life beyond Earth.
4. Discuss the main challenges a research station on Mars would face and propose solutions to these challenges.

Conclusion

Duration: (15 - 20 minutes)

The purpose of this stage is to consolidate students' learning, allowing them to review and reflect on the knowledge acquired. The final discussion provides an opportunity for students to express their opinions, ask questions, and understand the relevance of the subject in a broader context, connecting theory to practice and its possible applications in the job market and everyday life.

Discussion

Facilitate a discussion among students about what they learned during the lesson. Encourage them to reflect on how the discovery of life outside of Earth could impact our society in various aspects, including scientific, ethical, and philosophical. Ask how practical activities, such as building the research station on Mars, helped them better understand the conditions necessary for life and the challenges faced in extraterrestrial environments. Relate the challenges faced during the project to real situations faced by scientists and engineers in the field of space exploration.

Summary

Recap the main points covered in the lesson, such as the essential conditions for life (water, air composition, and temperature), recent discoveries regarding the presence of water on Mars and other moons, theories about the existence of extraterrestrial life, and the importance of astrobiology. Also highlight the connections made between theoretical content and practical applications, especially through the mini challenge of building a research station on Mars.

Closing

Conclude the lesson by explaining the importance of studying the possibility of life outside of Earth for our understanding of the universe and technological advancement. Discuss how the skills developed during the lesson, such as critical thinking, teamwork, and creativity, are valuable not only for careers related to space science and technology but also for many other fields. Thank everyone for their participation and encourage them to continue exploring and being interested in the topic.