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This C. elegans and the Search for Extraterrestrial Life unit plan also includes:
- Articles List for the Search for Extraterrestrial Life
- C. elegans Information Sheet
- PowerPoint: The Search for Extraterrestrial Life
- Worm Descriptions
- Rubric: Space Vehicle Prototype Model
- C. elegans Research Web Site Resources
- Wikipedia Fermi Paradox Information
- Worksheet: C. elegans Research
- Worksheet: New Life?
- Worksheet: Xenomals Class Characteristics
- Worksheet: C. elegans Space Vehicle
- Lesson Plan
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Introduce the topic of astrobiology in a unit that's out of this world. Biology scholars examine the search for extraterrestrial life by culturing roundworms, a species that has been key in helping researchers understand the challenges of space exploration. The unit culminates in a pupil-designed space exploration vehicle project.
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Instructional Ideas
- Incorporate a video depicting current astrobiological studies into the unit
- Create awards for groups with the best space vehicle designs
Classroom Considerations
- Order the C. elegans specimens in plenty of time to facilitate the experiment
- Pupils should have some experience in creating and maintaining lab-grown specimens
Pros
- The unit outline and materials include all printable worksheets and presentations
- Goals for learning are very clear and presented each day, which helps put individuals in charge of their learning
Cons
- None