Scientific engagement is the focus of the Cassini 5-8 Program, and it stresses an interdisciplinary hands-on approach to science learning at the middle grades in an effort to reach students who otherwise would not be exposed to such subject matter.
Because the Cassini Mission involves so many different elements of science, from engineering to astrophysics, to mathematics, to chemistry, educators teaching at this grade level can build on the highly successful materials already developed by Cassini Outreach for grades 5-8, which integrate science, math, language, fine arts and social studies.
This program incorporates the following existing products in its inventory:
|
|
Ways of Seeing CDROM
|
Educators may download or order these classroom materials through the web site.
Many of these materials were developed by Cassini scientists in collaboration with classroom teachers.
The Cassini 5-8 Education Program has also partnered with other groups both within and outside JPL to enrich the educator/student experience, and bring Saturn closer to the classroom.
|
|
GAVRT Radio Telescope
|
For example, the Goldstone Apple Valley Radio Telescope (GAVRT) provides curricula and training for middle and high school teachers to learn about the Deep Space Network, a group of radio telescopes responsible for worldwide radio communication to interstellar and deep space instrument and spacecraft. Here students can perform actual radio astronomy experiments, truly engaging in revolutionary scientific discovery.
Another example occurred during Cassini's flyby of Jupiter in 2000. With the partnership of the Lewis Center for Educational Research, students helped determine the radiation emissions from the planet Jupiter. The data from this project was delivered to the actual Cassini Science Team, and published in revered scientific journals on the subject.
The 5-8 Education Program aims to build on the successful relationship that exists between the Cassini Project and the Lewis Center for Educational Research/ Goldstone Apple Valley Radio Telescope program, as well as engaging students in producing interdisciplinary hands-on materials emphasizing Saturn and radio astronomy.
