Mission Library

Chasing Lights
Weather Patterns
Grades 2-3


The Mission
31 min

Storyline

When an alien object trapped in an iceberg causes strange behavior in the weather, it's up to the crew to use 7-day forecasts and climate averages to figure out what's going on.

When an alien life form is freed, the glacier begins to melt, which will force the students to brainstorm a way to protect the nearby village. Hoping...

3-Dimensional Science

Phenomenon

Different regions of the world have particular weather patterns that can be observed, described, and predicted.

Science and Engineering Practices

Asking Questions and Defining Problems

The crew investigates the unidentified object and alien life form and seeks to understand their impact on the environment.

Developing and Using Models

The crew uses weather data and patterns to identify potential locations of the alien life form.

Planning and Carrying Out Investigations

The crew collects and analyzes weather data to understand temperature changes.

Analyzing and Interpreting Data

The crew analyzes weather reports and patterns to locate the alien life form.

Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking

The crew considers temperature variations and seasonal changes when selecting a habitat for the alien life form.

Engaging in Argument from Evidence

The crew discusses the possible habitat options for the alien life form based on evidence and data.

Crosscutting Concepts

Cause and Effect

The crew's actions and decisions have consequences on the environment and the mission's success.

Patterns

The crew analyzes weather data and identifies patterns to locate the alien life form and make decisions about its habitat.

Systems and System Models

The crew considers the interconnectedness of weather patterns, environmental changes, and the behavior of the alien life form.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

ESS2.D: Weather and Climate

The crew reviews weather charts and data to understand changing temperature patterns and hazards.

LS2.C: Ecosystem Dynamics, Functioning, and Resilience

The crew determines an appropriate habitat for the alien life form based on its biology and needs.

ETS1.C: Optimizing the Design Solution

The crew evaluates various habitats to find a suitable environment for the alien life form.

Resources
Targeted Standards
Timeline
0:00

Mission Start and Briefing

2:30

Docking Port Navigation

5:30

Navigation Complete / Repairs

6:30

Quiz Question

7:30

Powering Engines

8:05

Quiz Question

9:05

Communicating with Calix and Mela

9:45

Quiz Question

10:45

Cutting Object out of ice

11:52

Investigation Pt. 1

12:28

Decision Point

13:46

Transporting Barrier

14:06

Quiz Question

15:28

Investigation

16:25

Decision Point

17:51

Storm Navigation

21:11

Quiz Question

22:53

Investigation

23:52

Decision Point

26:17

End

Skills in Action
CollaborationCommunicationCritical ThinkingDecision-MakingDigital LiteracyInitiativeMetacognitionProblem SolvingResilience