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NOVA scienceNOW: Space Elevator

Ideas from Teachers

(Gr. 6-8)
Objective
Students will create a detailed 2-D model of a space elevator.

Materials

• NOVA scienceNOW's "Space Elevator" video segment
• NOVA scienceNOW's "Space Elevator" Teacher's Guide
• LCD projector with Internet connection
• 11 x 17 white construction paper
• colored pencils
• #2 pencils
• crayons

Procedure

1. Ask students to brainstorm the words "space elevator."

2. Explain where the concept came from (science fiction, 1970s).

3. Explain the need for a space elevator and the dilemma surrounding the design of a space elevator.

4. Distribute the vocabulary list (from NOVA scienceNOW's Teacher's Guide) to accompany the segment.

5. Show the segment. You might choose to stop the segment to clarify and discuss points.

6. Hold a post-video discussion. What do students remember? What are carbon nanotubes? What are buckyballs? How close are we to creating a working space elevator?

7. Distribute art materials and explain to students that they are to design their own space elevator (working individually or in small groups).

8. When work is done (possibly over several days), students can share their designs and describe the materials they propose using.

9. Extension activity: How will you fund your design experimentation? What contests can you enter? If the space elevator works, how might you start your own design company?

Assessment
Vocabulary quiz game
Verbal responses to whole-class discussion
Two-dimensional designs
Group participation

Sent in by
Kim Scarola
Pembroke Pines Charter School
Pembroke Pines, FL