Agence spatiale canadienne
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Table of Contents

Phase 1 - Liftoff

Implementation

Depending on student abilities, teaching strategies, and curriculum emphasis, the suggested times may need adjustment. The recommended time for this phase is 2-3 hours.

  1. Begin the phase with a motivational video of a shuttle launch. Incorporating the definition of geometry, discuss how geometry plays an important role in space travel.

  2. The teacher leads the students through Phase 1: Liftoff as a whole class. The teacher’s role is to confirm understanding through questioning.

  3. At relevant places in Phase 1, pause the whole class presentation sequence and have students individually, or in pairs, complete the lessons in Math Mentor. The tutorial, Introduction to Angles, could be used after screen 1 if students’ prior knowledge is limited; or after screen 2 as review. The tutorial, Measuring Angles, could be used after screen 2 or 3 depending on student needs.

  4. Direct students to complete teacher-designated Exploration activities. The teacher acts as a coach to clarify understanding and as an assessor of student achievement to plan further learning.

  5. Students complete the Math Challenge individually. The information provided may result in additional classroom instruction and practice apart from the resource.

  6. Conclude the Phase by having students complete the Space Navigation Log.

  7. Evaluate student achievement using the assessment rubric.

Sequence
Approximate
Time
Computer
Requirements
Strategy
Phase 1:
Liftoff
1 hour
1 computer
LCD projector
Teacher-led presentation and whole class discussion
Math mentor
10 - 15 minutes
per lesson
Pods
Computer lab
Computer instruction
Math Challenge
10 - 15 minutes
Computer lab
Assessment
Exploration
Varies according to the activity
None
Hands-on activities as individuals, pairs, or in small groups according to the activity