STARS 1 – Grade 4 — 5 days
Students are introduced to scientific inquiry and apply mathematical concepts such as median, mode, measuring and estimating. Students develop and test scientific hypotheses; collect, analyze, and record data in graphs; apply ProDesktop engineering software and other computer technology to solve problems; explore careers; practice work readiness skills; and study history through exploration and experimentation in the following activities:
- Construct, fly and conduct experiments with gliders
- Build, launch and conduct experiments with rockets
- Utilize ProDesktop software to build computer models
- Explore the effects of lift and drag on different nose cones using a wind tunnel
- Experiment with motion, properties of air and forces of flight
- See “real world” applications of science and technology when they tour various aircraft
- Tour the MN Air Guard Museum to learn about the development of aviation and technology
- Homework, journaling and extension activities to reinforce and transfer their learning
STARS 2 – Grade 6 — 5 days
Students develop and utilize their skills in science, technology mathematics and engineering (STEM) as they attempt to answer the question, how can we engineer a human mission to Mars. Students investigate the planetary conditions of Mars and identify the design and engineering needs of its rover missions and human Mars exploration missions. Students conduct scientific experiments integrating math, technology and engineering to learn about Newton's Laws of Motion, the properties of air, speed, density and the four forces of flight. They learn about mean, units of measurement, ratios, estimating, and coordinate graphing, as well as explore technology-based designs and functions. Students experience the work of real life scientists and engineers as they use ProDesktop engineering software and other robotics software to build, program and test Mars rovers. Students put their scientific and mathematical skills into practice using technology and experiences with “real world” applications through the following activities:
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Experiment with rocket cars to learn Newton's three laws of motion
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Explore the differences between the composition and density of the atmosphere of Earth and Mars and the effects of these differences on objects moving through each atmosphere
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Investigate the mechanics of flight on Earth and the possible limitations of flight on Mars using balsa gliders
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Experience STEM careers through a tour of an aviation facility and career awareness activities
- Fly a flight simulator on the computer
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Map out the surface of Mars using coordinate graphing and Microsoft Excel
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Utilize ProDesktop software to build computer models
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Participate in a Mars rover programming challenge using robotics software
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Homework, journaling and extension activities to reinforce and transfer learning
Summer Programs
In the summer of 2008, STARBASE Minnesota will offer an exclusive engineering program to children of partners and potential partners of STARBASE Minnesota. The purpose of this program is to help excite children about their future in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) with a focus on engineering and engineering careers. See Summer Programs for more information.
