Synopsis:
Engineers and geologists trek to a Mars-like hill in Death Valley to test remotely operated off-planet exploration devices called "rovers."
Running time 1:41 minutes.
Lesson Guides:
Mars Lag
Subject: Mathematics
Topics: Algebra—Expressions and Equations
Grades: 6 – 12
Knowledge and Skills:
- Can evaluate expressions by substituting values for variables
- Can simplify expressions using correct order of operations
- Can do basic operations on both sides of an equation in such a way as to preserve the equality
Download Teacher Guide: Mars Lag (PDF)
Download Student Lesson: Mars Lag (PDF)
Rocks
Subject: Mathematics
Topics: Algebra—Coordinate Systems; Patterns, Relations and Functions
Grades: 6 - 12
Knowledge and Skills:
- Can plot a point in a two-dimensional coordinate system, given the coordinates, or determine the coordinates of a given point
- Can extrapolate a graph when a pattern exists
- Can relate aspects of a graphical model to the real world situation which is being modeled
- Can use a functional relationship to predict the value of one variable when the other is known
Download Teacher Guide: Rocks (PDF)
Download Student Lesson: Rocks (PDF)
Building a Rover
Subject: Mathematics
Topics: Algebra—Coordinate Systems, Patterns, Relations and Functions; Linear Functions
Grades: 6 – 12
Knowledge and Skills:
- Can plot a point in a two-dimensional coordinate system, given the coordinates, or determine the coordinates of a given point
- Can extrapolate a graph when a pattern exists
- Can relate aspects of a graphical model to the real world situation which is being modeled
- Understands that linear functions are characterized by the fact that the ratio of change in independent variable to change in dependent variable is constant
Flash 7 or greater is required.
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