Space Math Activity Bundle: Real World Math (Fractions, Ratios, and Geometry)
Bring math to life with these fun math activities related to asteroids and space! This bundle includes four space themed activities that incorporate ratios, geometry, and algebraic expressions combined with a STEM career connection.
Grades: 5th - 9th
Teaching Duration: 3 hours
“I loved that I was able to connect these math challenges to the students’ science curriculum. ”
lesson overview
Bring math to life with these fun math activities related to asteroids and space! This bundle includes four space themed activities that incorporate ratios, geometry, and algebraic expressions combined with a STEM career connection. Perfect for grades 5th - 8th depending on student level.
Activities can be completed stand alone or in a sequence. Recommended for extension of a space unit, a math center activity, or as part of an out of school STEM program.
Activity 1: Russian Meteor Event
30 to 45 minute activity that incorporates math word problems with a real meteor event. Activity can be completed as a class, in small groups, or individually. Additional background on asteroids is provided on the resources page. Supplies needed: Internet and laptop for video
Activity 2: Asteroid Invasion
20 to 30 minute activity depending on level of students. Students evaluate and apply an algebraic equation to determine the threat of an impeding asteroid. Activity is best completed individually or as part of a center.
Activity 3: Save the Earth
30 to 60 minutes activity to be completed in teams or individually. Students use critical thinking and creativity to come up with ideas to stop an impeding asteroid. The activity is flexible and can be tailored to fit your time constraints. Students can work individually or in teams. Additional background is provided on the resources page including real strategies being developed by scientists and engineers.
Activity 4: Safe Shelter Calculations
20 to 30 minute activity to be completed as a class or individually once the classroom measurements are provided. This activity centers on the need for safe shelters to protect people from an impending asteroid impact. Students use geometry to determine how many safe shelters would need to be built to house all the people in their city.
Bonus! STEM Career Connection: This handout connects the space-themed activities to two STEM real world careers: Aerospace Engineer and Astronomer.
