Weather and Data Visualization: Epic 3rd Grade Classroom Mission

Storyline

Students must covertly use their knowledge of weather and data visualization to find the best place to plant life-saving seeds all while avoiding detection from the Sarucians.

The crew will need to secretly try to restore the food source by planting the seeds in another part of the planet that has the best climate for ideal growth. Once the crew finds the best place to plant the seeds, they will release the torpedo of super seeds.

Est. time: 23 min.

Targeted Standards

3-Dimensional Science

Phenomenon

Seasons have particular weather condition patterns that can be observed, described, and predicted.

Science and Engineering Practices

Asking Questions and Defining Problems

The crew formulates questions about the planets' environmental conditions and defines the problem of finding the most suitable planet for crop growth.

Planning and Carrying Out Investigations

The crew plans and carries out investigations using the time machine to study the planets' conditions over time.

Analyzing and Interpreting Data

The crew analyzes the data obtained from the time machine and other sources to make informed decisions about which planet to choose.

Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking

The crew uses mathematical calculations to assess the planets' temperature, precipitation, and other factors relevant to crop growth.

Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

The crew constructs explanations based on their observations and data analysis to decide on the best planet for planting seeds.

Engaging in Argument from Evidence

The crew engages in discussions and debates about the merits of each planet based on evidence gathered from their investigations.

Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information

The crew communicates with Dr. Zyla and each other to obtain and evaluate information critical to the success of the mission.

Crosscutting Concepts

Patterns

In the mission, the crew observes patterns in the weather conditions on different planets. They notice the variations in temperature, precipitation, and other factors that determine the planet's suitability for crop growth.

Cause and Effect

The crew investigates the cause and effect relationship between extreme weather conditions on the target planet and the potential consequences for the Sarucian colony. They aim to understand how weather impacts crop growth and survival.

Stability and Change

The crew examines the stability and changes in the environment on different planets, determining which one has the most suitable conditions for plant growth.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

ESS1.B: Earth and the Solar System

The crew studies the characteristics of different planets in a solar system, focusing on their environmental conditions and suitability for crop growth.

ESS2.D: Weather and Climate

The crew analyzes the weather patterns and climate conditions on different planets to understand their impact on plant growth.

Seed Situation