In 2006, New Horizons began its mission to fly to Pluto. As it continues its journey, scholars track its progress with the help of an informative website, all the while reinforcing measurement concepts with the construction of a scaled map.    

Concepts

the solar system, planets, inner planets, outer planets, distance, space travel, measurement, map scales, the universe, scale

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Flip the classroom; assign the link to be viewed as homework prior to conducting the lesson so learners are prepared to discuss and apply their new-found knowledge 
• To save time during the class period, direct pupils to track New Horizons's monthly travel progress at home then discuss the next day to reinforce comprehension 
• Conduct the activity as a solo or group activity for those that need additional support 

Classroom Considerations

• The resource is the fourth in a series of 10 lesson plans that explore our solar system
• Schedule time in the computer lab or on mobile learning devices when internet access is required 

Pros

• Engaging background information about New Horizons is provided 
• The activity encourages pupils to carefully follow directions 

Cons

• None

Common Core

2.MD.A.1 3.MD.B.4 4.MD.A.1 5.MD.A.1