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In this activity (page 10 of PDF), learners approximate the area of the uppermost cross section of an impact crater using a variety of square grids. They conclude which angle of impact results in the greatest area. There are two versions of this activity: Challenge, where students construct a launcher and create their own craters; and Non-Challenge where students analyze pictures of craters. Includes a pre-lesson activity (p54). The Moon Math: Craters! guide follows a 5E approach, applying concepts of geometry, modeling, data analysis to the NASA lunar spacecraft mission, LCROSS.
- 10 to 30 minutes
- 45 to 60 minutes
- $5 - $10 per student
- Ages 8 - 14
- Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Simulation
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per student)
- Shallow pan
- Soil-like substance
- Spherical projectile (description p6 of guide)
- Launching device (guidelines p5-6 of guide)
- Bed sheet (or other drape for spreading on the floor under the pan of soil)
- Transparencies of 3 different square grids: 2 cm x 2 cm, 1 cm x 1 cm, 1/2 x 1/2 cm (templates on pp. 41-43 of PDF)
- Tape
- Wet erase markers (1 light, 1 dark)
- Approximating Area Pre-lesson Activity student worksheet (p. 54 of PDF)
- Activity B – Crater Area student worksheet (p. 55 of PDF)
- Non-Challenge Version -- Activity A – Impact Crater Images (p. 52 of PDF)
Subjects
-
Earth and Space Science
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Astronomy
- Probes, Satellites and Spacecraft
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Solar System
- The Moon
- Asteroids and Comets
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Astronomy
-
Mathematics
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Data Analysis and Probability
- Data Collection
- Data Representation
-
Geometry
- Plane Geometry
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Measurement
- Size and Scale
- Circles
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Data Analysis and Probability
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Physical Sciences
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Motion and Forces
- Momentum and Velocity
- Projectile Motion
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Motion and Forces
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The Nature of Science
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The Scientific Process
- Conducting Investigations
- Gathering Data
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The Scientific Process
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- read
- be mobile
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
- NASA
Rights:
- Public domain, ,