Space Race Lesson Plan 3/5/12 to 3/7/12 Goals/Objectives Students will understand how the space program has

affected and contributed to our world. Standards 3.4.7.D Identify equipment and instruments that explore space. Identify the accomplishments and contributions provided by select past and present scientists in the field of astronomy. Materials and preparation Computers Classroom arrangement and management issues Students will be seated at their lab tables to research space contributions and blunders in partners. If there are technology problems, we will utilize the computer lab and I will also have books and text books in the classroom. During the debate the classroom will be split in half: pros and cons, students will sit on their respective side. Plan Day 1: 1. Quiz on space race events and people. [15 minutes] 2. Log Question: What do we get out of exploring space? [5 minutes] 3. Describe class debate on space exploration: half of the class will be researching three pros of space exploration and the other half will research three cons of space exploration, using computers, text book, and other books. The following day we will have an informal debate. Assign each lab table a pro or con position. [5 minutes] 4. Provide time for them to research their position and develop their argument. [20 minutes] Day 2 & 3: 1. Arrange classroom into two sides: pro and con. Have students sit on appropriate side in their lab groups. 2. Explain procedure for the debate: pro will give their first point, con will have a chance to rebut and then give their first point, we will continue back and forth for three points each. Then each group will give their closing statements. The winner will be determined by a

class vote. If there is an even split, I will be the deliberator. Answer any questions. [10 minutes] 3. Give some time for groups to prepare their argument. Lab groups can choose which point they want to present and a speaker. [10 minutes] 4. Class debate and declaration of winner. [60 minutes] Assessment Checklist during debate research and preparation, review student work and progress, as well as students on task. Checklist during debate, speakers/commentators, strength and clarity of argument, student involvement/engagement. Winning side gets 5 extra points. Anticipating students responses and your possible responses

Accommodations If student is having difficulty, I will have articles and book passages marked for them to read in order to find information to create their argument. If students are working quickly, I will have them research the opposite in anticipation of points the opposing side may make and therefore allow them to build their rebuttal.