Activity 1.6 - Designing the model of a greenhouse for space station

Learning Aims:

    Students are expected to:

    • analyse critically the conditions people will encounter on Mars when designing a greenhouse,
    • propose solutions to the possible problems and develop a model of a greenhouse.
      Materials:
      Computers and internet
      http://science.nasa.gov/science-news/science-at-nasa/2004/25feb_greenhouses/
      http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Life_on_Mars_%28planet%29
      http://hortist.blogspot.com/2009/09/greenhouse-on-mars.html
      Sheet of paper (A3 or A2), coloured or felt-tip pencils.
      Suggestions for use:

      In this activity, it is expected that students will find relevant information themselves regarding the conditions on Mars (gravity, air pressure, consistence of atmosphere, temperature, mineral consistence of the ground, is it possible to use the existing ground for growing plants, level of radiation, length of the day and year) and fill in the table using 1) critical thinking to understand what the main problems related to greenhouse design are, and 2) creative thinking to offer possible design solutions.

      When drawing the scheme, students may just use a pencil and paper (at least A3), but all other solutions (e.g. digital) are welcome as long as the picture is supplemented with relevant details and comments.

      In the last lesson, all groups will present their models to the other groups where students can test their ideas with the help of the comments and questions of class mates.
      Possible questions:
        • Which wavelengths of radiation, temperatures, etc are needed to make the photosynthesis effective in artificial conditions?
        • Is the existing ground on Mars suitable for growing plants?
        • What are the most critical problems when growing plants on Mars?