8 th graders’ plans to colonize another planet!

1. 8th graders’ plans to colonize another planet! Force & motion as it applies to geologic events and impacts on city planning

2. Purpose • This activity is intended as a follow-up for a 2 week project (Dynamic Earth) in which students become an “expert” (seismologist, vulcanologist, geologist or paleographer) • Each expert has specific tasks to handle on a group map • Each expert is assigned an essay with specific requirements

3. Colonization Scenario • Humans are in the beginning phases of colonizing a fictional planet - Planet Grizzly. • Politicians have chosen each group of experts (from the previous Dynamic Earth project) to communicate with a team of civil, geotechnical & structural engineers

4. Goal: Start the planning stages of city development by answering the questions that follow then choosing the best location for the city. Use your dynamic Earth maps to decide on your city’s location. • Instructions: Apply what you learned in your Dynamic Earth project.by addressing each of the following questions. Be prepared to discuss you answers.

5. Note: Tectonic activity on Planet Grizzly is similar to that of Earth’s (similar causes and effects). 1. What types of structures (buildings, roads, power plants, entertainment etc.) are important to have when planning/designing a small town/city? 2. What information will the engineers need from you? Why? How/where could you find/gather this information? 3. Are some locations better suited for certain structures? Why? 4. What information from past events on Earth can impact this planning? Why? 5. Make a chart/diagram that explains the potential impacts on society. (see crit C rubric) 6. Explain your group’s choice for the city’s location.

6. Assessment Criterion A – One World – Describe, discuss and/or evaluate the societal impacts of Planet Grizzly’s changing surface.