Shapes and Angles

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In this activity (page 7 of PDF), learners will identify the general two-dimensional geometric shape of the uppermost cross section of an impact crater. They will also draw connections between the general two-dimensional geometric shape of an impact crater and the projectile's angle of impact. 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. The Moon Math: Craters! guide follows a 5E approach, applying concepts of geometry, modeling, data analysis to the NASA lunar spacecraft mission, LCROSS.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$10 - $20 per student
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Simulation
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • Shallow pan (aluminum baking pan, cardboard box lid, dishpan, etc.)
  • Soil-like substance (dirt, sand, flour, fine kitty litter, etc.)
  • Spherical projectile
  • Launching device
  • Bed sheet (or other drape for spreading on the floor under the pan of soil)
  • Activity A – Shapes and Angles student worksheet (p. 53 of PDF)
  • Shocking Shapes article (p. 44 of PDF)
  • Non-Challenge Version -- Activity A – Impact Crater Images (p. 52 of PDF)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Astronomy
      • Probes, Satellites and Spacecraft
    • Solar System
      • The Moon
      • Asteroids and Comets
  • Mathematics
    • Geometry
      • Plane Geometry
    • Measurement
      • Size and Scale
      • Circles
  • Physical Sciences
    • Motion and Forces
      • Momentum and Velocity
      • Projectile Motion
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • be mobile
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • NASA

Rights:

  • Public domain, ,