Mr. Webster
Today, we are going to read about the exploration of Mars.
Mr. Webster
Let’s begin by using “Google” to search the Internet.
1.
Look at the Google search results, at left.
Student
Click on the link that is most likely to explain where the planet Mars is in the solar system.
2.
Write the names of the three planets between Mars and the Sun.
Student
Mr. Webster
Now, click on Mars to learn more about this planet.
3.
100 years ago, why did scientists think there might be life on Mars?
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4.
Why does Mars look red?
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5.
Why is Mars colder than Earth?
Student
It is farther from the Sun.
It is smaller than Earth.
It is very rocky.
It has canals.
Mr. Webster
Next, we will read about how scientists have tried to get closer to Mars to learn more.
6.
Look at the Google search results, at left.
Student
Click on the link that will provide the most information about space exploration of Mars.
7.
What do the words “more failures than successes” tell you about missions to Mars?
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Scientists have attempted 40 missions so far.
Technology needs to advance.
Missions to Mars are difficult.
People will keep exploring Mars.
8.
Why do scientists keep trying to explore Mars?
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Mr. Webster
Next, click on the website tab “Getting to Mars.”
9.
According to the website, what is an orbit?
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10.
Look at the moving diagram of Earth and Mars orbiting around the Sun. What is the main purpose of the diagram?
Student
to show the colors of Earth and Mars
to show that the Sun is part of the solar system
to show that the distance between Earth and Mars changes
to show that Earth and Mars are far from the Sun
11.
You have to plan a long time ahead to get to Mars.
Explain why.
Student
Mr. Webster
Now, click on the website tab “Missions.”
12.
Which describes a flyby mission?
Student
Spacecraft is flown by a human pilot.
Spacecraft takes pictures as it goes by Mars.
Spacecraft flies in circles around Mars.
Spacecraft is flown by remote-control.
13.
Now that there are rovers on Mars, why are orbiters still useful?
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14.
New inventions have helped scientists look at Mars from locations closer and closer to the planet.
In the boxes below each location, write the name of the invention that scientists used to look at Mars. You can look back at the webpages.
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Looking at Mars from Earth
Looking at Mars from space
Looking at Mars from its surface
Mr. Webster
Next, click on the website tab “Seeking Signs of Life.”
15.
Why are rovers on Mars looking for water?
Student
Mr. Webster
Now, click on the website tab “Rover Called Curiosity.”
Mr. Webster
Click on the body parts of Curiosity to read about what each part does.
16.
Match each part of Curiosity with something that the part does. Click on the drop-down menus.
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A. Arm and Hand
B. Body and Instruments
C. Eyes
D. Wheels and Legs
17.
The website says a rover can explore Mars almost like a person would. Give two examples of how.
Student
Mr. Webster
Now, we are going to read about what Curiosity has done on Mars. Click on this link — The Gift of Curiosity
18.
The surface of Mars may have looked different in ancient times than it does today. Describe one way.
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19.
Why is the Times-Journal article titled “The Gift of Curiosity”?
Student
Curiosity gave scientists the first photographs of Mars.
Curiosity gave scientists the idea of exploring.
Curiosity gave scientists evidence of water.
Curiosity gave scientists many new rocks.
20.
The writer of “The Gift of Curiosity” is in favor of exploring Mars.
Explain how the writer shows this.
Student
Mr. Webster
Well done! You have completed your research on Mars.
Mr. Webster
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Mr. Webster
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