Begin with a captivating introduction about the Apollo program's historical significance and its primary goal of landing humans on the moon. Highlight the success of Apollo 11 and the challenges faced by Apollo 13.
Go to the LessonLesson Plans
In the Field – Apollo 13
Learning Objectives
- Understand the primary goals of NASA's Apollo program and its historical significance.
- Analyze the challenges faced by the Apollo 13 mission and how they were addressed by Mission Control.
- Identify the key problems that arose during the Apollo 13 mission and the solutions implemented to ensure the crew's safe return.
- Recognize the importance of teamwork and problem-solving in overcoming unexpected challenges in space exploration.
Introduction and Hook
Direct Instruction
Discuss the Apollo 13 mission, focusing on the unexpected challenges such as the explosion in the command module and the subsequent problem-solving efforts by Mission Control.
Introduce the video 'The First Man on the Moon' to provide context on the Apollo program's achievements and the technological advancements in space exploration.
Guided Exploration
Engage students in a discussion about the key problems faced during the Apollo 13 mission and the innovative solutions implemented to ensure the crew's safe return.
Watch the video 'Space Exploration – Beyond Our Planet' to explore various methods and technologies used in space exploration, enhancing students' understanding of the advancements that made missions like Apollo 13 possible.
Hands-On Activity
Conduct a simulation activity where students work in teams to solve a space-related problem, mirroring the teamwork and problem-solving skills demonstrated by Mission Control during Apollo 13.
Independent Practice
Assign students to research and present on a specific aspect of the Apollo 13 mission, such as the role of the lunar module or the carbon dioxide removal system adaptation.
Check for Understanding
Use the 'Galaxy Classification' assessment to evaluate students' understanding of galaxy types and their features, drawing parallels to the teamwork and problem-solving aspects of the Apollo 13 mission.
Review and Reflection
Facilitate a class discussion to reflect on the importance of teamwork and problem-solving in space exploration, using the Apollo 13 mission as a case study.
Assessment and Extension
Encourage students to take the 'Space Exploration – Comprehension' assessment to reinforce their understanding of space exploration concepts discussed in the lesson.
Try the Quiz
For further exploration, students can work on the 'Space Exploration Research Project' to investigate another space mission, enhancing their research and synthesis skills.
