Janie+Fryer's+Lesson+Plan

Janie Fryer Title: Space Trash Subject: Science Grade: 5th


 * __Objective__**: TSW learn about space trash and why people should be concerned about it; TSW think of a way that some of the space trash could be cleaned up; TSW investigate different learning links for space trash


 * __Materials:__** Picture of cartoon displaying space trash, computer lab with internet access, SEA worksheet, and a KWL Chart


 * __Procedures:__** Have students use the blank KWL chart and fill out the K and W sections about what they know and want to learn about space trash. Then, display the following cartoon on the overhead and discuss the picture and what they think the meaning behind the cartoon is. Students should then analyze the cartoon using the SEA method.



After students have used the SEA method to analyze the cartoon, work together and explore the following links on the internet:

What Is Space Trash? [|Source: NASA] - Starchild

Archaeology of Space Garbage Source: W. L. Rathje [|Archaeology]

Space station junk burns up over ocean Source: MSNBC.com [|Space Station]

Who'll Take Out the Space Trash? Source: WIRED Science [|PBS]


 * __Conclusion:__** Students and the teacher should discuss concepts learned and finish filling out the KWL chart together.


 * __Final Product:__** Students will create their own cartoon on poster paper for the next 2 or 3 class periods. The cartoon should be their own version of space trash.

//What method will students use to analyze the document (s), data and political cartoon (s)?// Students will analyze the web links and the cartoon using the SEA method.
 * __Reflection:__**

//Will your students use a graphic organizer like a KWL chart or Venn Diagram?// The students will use a KWL chart.

//What final product will your students create, if any?// The students will create the final KWL chart. The students will also create a poster depicting their view of space trash.

//How will your activity promote critical thinking skills?// Students will think critically about the cartoon and what it means. They will also analyze the different web links provided using the SEA method.

//How will this lesson integrate with the rest of your curriculum?// This lesson will integrate into our Science curriculum. We teach a unit on trash and recycling, but have never focused on space trash.