Mission Library

Shakedown
The Solar System
3rd Grade

The Mission
34 min

Storyline

With a ship lost in space, the crew must apply their knowledge of the solar system to analyze clues to find the ship before it's too late.

Throughout the Mission, the crew will use their knowledge of the planets in the solar system to follow the clues to where Mela has been. Students will identify where to go next based on planet characteristics and locations in the solar system.

3-Dimensional Science

Phenomenon

The planets in our solar system can be identified by their characteristics and position in relation to the Sun.

Science and Engineering Practices

Asking Questions and Defining Problems

  • Ask questions based on observations to find more information about the natural and/or designed world(s).

Analyzing and Interpreting Data

  • Use observations (firsthand or from media) to describe patterns and/or relationships in the natural and designed world(s) in order to answer scientific questions and solve problems.

Crosscutting Concepts

Systems and System Models

  • Students understand that a system is a group of related parts that make up a whole and can carry out functions its individual parts cannot. They can also describe a system in terms of its components and their interactions.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

ESS1.A: The Universe and Its Stars

  • The sun is a star that appears larger and brighter than other stars because it is closer. Stars range greatly in their size and distance from Earth.

Resources
Timeline
Skills in Action