Earth and Space: Our Solar System · Term 3

Phases of the Moon

Students investigate the causes of the Moon's phases and its synchronous rotation.

About This Topic

Space Exploration and Ethics looks at the past, present, and future of human activity beyond Earth. Students learn about the history of the 'Space Race,' the development of the International Space Station, and Canada's significant contributions to space technology, such as the Canadarm and the training of Canadian astronauts. This topic connects science to global cooperation and technological innovation.

As we look toward Mars and beyond, students also grapple with ethical questions: Who owns the Moon? Should we spend billions on space when there are problems on Earth? What are our responsibilities to avoid contaminating other planets? This topic is ideal for structured debates and role plays where students must balance scientific curiosity with ethical responsibility and Canadian interests.

Active Learning Ideas

Formal Debate: The Mars Colony

Students debate whether humans should prioritize building a colony on Mars or fixing environmental issues on Earth. They must use evidence regarding costs, technology, and human survival.

⏱ 60 min·Whole Class

Generate mission

Role Play: The Space Station Crisis

Small groups act as an international crew on the ISS. They are given a problem (e.g., a solar flare or equipment failure) and must use their knowledge of space conditions to collaborate on a solution.

⏱ 45 min·Small Groups

Generate mission

Gallery Walk: Canadian Space Heroes

Stations feature Canadian astronauts (like Chris Hadfield or Roberta Bondar) and technologies (like the Canadarm2). Students record how these individuals and inventions have helped us understand space.

⏱ 40 min·Small Groups

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Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Space exploration is just about 'walking on the moon.'

What to Teach Instead

Explain that most space exploration is done by satellites and rovers that help us with GPS, weather forecasting, and monitoring climate change on Earth. A gallery walk of 'Space Tech in Your Pocket' helps students see the daily benefits.

Common Misconception

Only the USA and Russia are involved in space.

What to Teach Instead

Highlight Canada's world-leading role in space robotics and satellite communications. Showing videos of the Canadarm in action on the ISS helps students take pride in Canadian scientific achievements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Canadarm?

The Canadarm was a series of robotic arms used on the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. It was designed in Canada and is one of our most famous scientific achievements, used to capture satellites and help build the ISS.

How can active learning help students understand space ethics?

Ethics are best explored through discussion. By using 'Four Corners' debates or role plays, students are forced to consider perspectives other than their own. When they have to defend the 'right' to mine an asteroid, they begin to see the legal and moral complexities that scientists and world leaders face today.

Who was the first Canadian in space?

Marc Garneau was the first Canadian to fly in space in 1984. Since then, many other Canadians, including Roberta Bondar (the first Canadian woman) and Chris Hadfield, have made significant contributions to space science.

Why is it so hard to go to Mars?

Mars is much further than the Moon, taking about 7-9 months to reach. Challenges include protecting astronauts from radiation, carrying enough food and fuel, and the psychological stress of being away from Earth for years.

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