Course Overview

It’s a Mars Life is for any child who has ever wondered about life in space and for those with a passion for environmental sustainability. Using the engineering design process, and challenging their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, students construct their own sustainable systems to support life in space. Exploring water filtration systems and harnessing solar power for a comfortable life on Mars they’ll learn fundamental science theories developing their science inquiry skills and growth mindset in a practical immersive learning environment. It’s a Mars Life is specifically designed for middle school students to participate at home online through live and interactive group lessons. 

Inclusions: Live NASA Tour, free launch kit, certificate upon completion

See also:

• Background on It's a Mars Life

• Course Outline

• Learning Outcomes

• Course Details

• Class Schedule

$370

FREE Launch Kit

1. Introduction to the Mars environment through guided learning

2. Introduction to human needs in space through guided learning 

3. Introduction to environmental science theories

4. Student-driven inquiry into Mars human colony planning 

5. Follow engineering design process to design and build sustainable systems 

6. Complete two challenges to test system design 

7. Summative presentation on Mars human colony plan

8. Join Live NASA Tour to see the history and future of NASA spacecraft

Course Outline

• Critically evaluate the Mars environment and sustainable practices to develop an inquiry to design a Mars human colony

• Apply the scientific method with curiosity and imagination to design life support systems for Mars

• Master fundamental environmental science theories and apply mathematic in practical activities

• Collect, analyse and interpret data and demonstrate strong problem-solving techniques to refine designs and overcome challenges

• Use clear communication to demonstrate understanding of the Mars environment and sustainable practices in proposed Mars human colony plan

• Embody the practice of growth mindset principles

Learning Outcomes

• Age-group Suitability: Ages 10-13

• Small Class Sizes: Up to 20 students per class

• Prerequisite Requirements: None

• Class Format: Live online learning via Zoom. Practical activities by students at home. Interaction between teacher and students live online

• Equipment Requirments:

  • Students required to supply various construction materials including everyday stationery items and household recyclables

  • A list will be provided upon course confirmation. 

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• System Requirements: 

  • A computer with a camera, mic, speaker (or headphones)

  • A Gmail account required for Google Class

  • An Internet connection and an internet browser

  • Zoom video conference application

Course Details