The goal is to encourage and empower students to make an impact in their world. We have created three different problems that students can address based on their grade level. The three questions are based to target conservation of materials, reducing pollution, and space exploration. The answers should reflect the students' knowledge as much as possible.
KINDERGARTEN to SECOND GRADE
The average person uses between 80-100 gallons of water per day. That's about three full swimming pools. In a family of four, 320-400 gallons are used per day. After a year, more than 100,000 gallons of water are used. Wasting water is one big reason why California is in a drought. A drought is when there is a lack of water, usually when there is a long time without rain. Wasting water isn't good for the environment, but everyone can help save a little water. How can you help your family use less water? |
THIRD GRADE to FIFTH GRADE
In the middle of the Pacific Ocean, there is a big “island” of trash about the size of Texas. Because of the ocean currents between North America and Asia, this island is getting bigger every year. Most of the trash is plastic, which can take up to 450 years to decompose, or to break down. Scientists are aware that the only way to get rid of the trash is for humans to clean it up. The only problem is that trash collects on the island faster than we can clean it up. As a result, the island is only getting bigger. Trash in the ocean can harm wildlife and water quality. If you were in charge of cleaning up the island, how would you take more trash out of the ocean than is being thrown in? |
SIXTH GRADE to EIGHTH GRADE
NASA’s goal is to have men and women land on Mars by the year 2030. The mission will include sending astronauts to Mars, orbiting Mars, and returning back to Earth. Before this can happen, NASA needs to prepare technology to get humans to Mars and to have them be safe outside of a space vehicle. Currently, there are two rovers on Mars. The first rover, Spirit, is examining the Martian surface, like a geologist. The second rover, Curiosity, is examining what the surface is made of and if it could support life in the past. Curiosity is like a chemist. Besides the rovers, NASA has many satellites orbiting Mars, taking pictures of the planet. More information about Mars is needed before it will be safe to send humans there. If you were the head of the Mars Missions, what would you do to prepare men and women to journey to Mars safely? |