Lesson plan	Lesson plan
What to create	Lesson plan
Which subject	Science
What topic	Space technology used everyday
What length (min)	50
What age group	Year or Grade 5
Include homework
Include images descriptions
Any other preferences

Academic Subject: Science

Grade/Year Level: Grade 5 (Age 9-10)

Time Allotted: 50 minutes

Objectives:

• To introduce students to the different space technologies used every day
• To increase awareness of space technology and how it affects everyday life
• To develop critical thinking skills by discussing the impact of space technology on society

Materials Needed:

• Projector and screen
• Computer or laptop
• Internet access
• Pictures/diagrams of space technology

Anticipatory Set:

Have students brainstorm a list of space technology that they think is used every day. Write the list on the board. Ask students what they think would happen if this technology were suddenly removed.

Instructional Input:

Space Technology in Everyday Life

Space technology has had a significant impact on our everyday lives, and we may not even realize it. Here are a few examples:

• GPS (Global Positioning System): Developed by the U.S. Department of Defense, GPS uses a network of satellites to provide location and time information anywhere on Earth. GPS is used by mobile devices, cars, airplanes, and boats, among other things.

  {The image of GPS satellites in orbit around the Earth.}

• Weather Forecasting: Weather satellites provide critical information needed for predicting severe weather conditions, monitoring climate change, and providing weather forecasts to millions of people worldwide.

  {The image of a weather satellite in orbit around the Earth.}

• Medical Technology: Technology developed for space exploration has also found practical applications in medical fields. For example, NASA developed infrared ear thermometers that can quickly and accurately measure a patient's temperature without touching them. Also, many medical implants such as pacemakers and cochlear implants were developed from NASA’s lander technology.

  {The image of an infrared ear thermometer.}

• Velcro: Velcro was developed by a Swiss engineer, George de Mestral, inspired by the burrs from burdock (exterior seeds are designed to aid dispersal over a wide area). Velcro is now used in many products such as shoes, bags, and clothing.

  {The image of a close-up of a Velcro attachment.}

The Impact of Space Technology

The impact of space technology on society has been enormous. Some benefits include:

• Improved communication: Satellites enable global communication, including the internet, mobile phones, and television broadcasts.
• Improved safety: Satellite data can help responders in natural or man-made disaster management.
• Scientific innovation: Space exploration has led to many breakthroughs in science and technology, resulting in new discoveries and knowledge about our world.

Considerations

It’s essential to consider the impact of space technology on society, the cost associated with developing and exploring, and the long-term effects.

Guided Practice:

Divide the class into small groups and have them discuss some benefits and challenges of space technology. After the allotted time has passed, have a representative from each group present their findings.

Independent Practice:

Assign a project for students to create a poster or brochure on a particular space technology. They should include information on the technology's history, practical use, and its impact on society.

Closure:

Ask students to reflect on the lesson by answering the following questions:

• What is one piece of technology that surprised you that came from space exploration?
• How might society be different without space technology?

Assessment:

• Evaluation of the project created by students
• Class participation and contribution to group discussion