SAVY Saturday, Week 3, Space Academy (3rd-4th)
It has been an out-of-this-world three weeks at SAVY Space Academy! From the moment students stepped into the classroom, they became engineers, astronauts, and problem-solvers. On our final Saturday together, students worked together to complete their final mission: landing on and exploring Mars.
Our young explorers wrapped up their mission with two exciting hands-on experiments—building a Mars rover and constructing a geodesic dome. These projects challenged students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and apply the Engineering Design Process to solve real-world problems.
The first challenge required students to design and build their own Mars rover. They had to consider important factors, such as the planet’s rocky terrain, extreme temperatures, and the need for mobility. Using a variety of materials, teams worked through the Engineering Design Process—asking questions, brainstorming solutions, planning their models, building their designs, testing functionality, and refining their rovers to improve performance. Through trial and error, students learned the value of creative problem-solving as they adjusted their rovers. Ask your student about their wheel design and how they improved it throughout the day! If you have some spare cardboard at home, students can continue tinkering with these rovers until they get it just right!
For the second challenge, students tackled an essential part of Martian exploration: shelter. They designed and built geodesic domes, a structure known for its strength and efficiency. With straws, tape, and teamwork, students applied geometry and engineering principles to construct their shelters, ensuring they could withstand the harsh conditions of Mars. Throughout the process, they analyzed the strength of different designs, experimented with stability, and made improvements to create the most durable dome possible.
Throughout the day, students engaged deeply in the Engineering Design Process:
- Ask: What challenges do Mars rovers and shelters face?
- Imagine: What creative solutions can we develop?
- Plan: How can we design our structures to function effectively?
- Create: Let’s build and test our prototypes!
- Improve: What adjustments can we make for better results?
By working through this process, students developed engineering skills and gained confidence in problem-solving, teamwork, and resilience.
At the end of Space Academy, our students successfully landed on Mars, deployed their rovers, and built shelters for future explorers. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and determination made this mission a resounding success! Thank you for your continued support in fostering a love of learning and exploration.
Over at out,
Ms. Jahn