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Case Study: Life Discovered on Mars (Teacher & Student Edition)
Topics Explored: Solar Energy, Natural Disruptions Impact on Ecosystmes, Geological Changes, Natural Sources of CO2, How Change in Climate Impacts Ecosystems, and Science vs. Pseudoscience
 
Looking for a fun and engaging way to teach critical thinking? This April Fools’ Day case study presents students with a "breaking news" discovery of life on Mars, only to reveal the truth at the end! Designed to help students distinguish between scientific reasoning and pseudoscientific speculation, this activity encourages them to analyze claims, evaluate evidence, and apply the principles of scientific inquiry. Perfect for sparking curiosity, discussions, and a few laughs! Answer key included.
 
Includes:
  • A detailed, realistic case study
  • Thought-provoking discussion questions
  • A teacher edition with answers
  • Clear connections to AP Environmental Science learning objectives

Case Study: Life Discovered on Mars (Teacher & Student Edition)

Rating is 3.0 out of five stars based on 2 reviews
$0.00Price

  • ZIP file containing 2 PDF files 
    (1 Teacher Edition and 1 Student Edition)

  • AP Learning Objectives:

    1.8   Explain how solar energy is acquired and transferred by living organisms.

    2.5   Explain how natural disruptions, both short- and long-term, impact an ecosystem.

    4.1   Describe the geological changes and events that occur at convergent, divergent, and transform plate boundaries. 

    7.4   Describe natural sources of CO2 and particulates. 

    9.5   Explain how changes in climate, both short- and long-term, impact ecosystems. 


     

    AP® Environmental Science Practices:

    Practice 1: Explain environmental concepts, processes, and models presented in written format. 

    Practice 2: Analyze visual representations of environmental concepts and processes. 

    Practice 3: Analyze sources of information about environmental issues.  

    Practice 4: Analyze research studies that test environmental principles.  

    Practice 5: Analyze and interpret quantitative data represented in tables, charts, and graphs.

    Practice 6: Apply quantitative methods to address environmental concepts.

    Practice 7: Propose and justify solutions to environmental problems.

    AP® is a registered trademark registered by the College Board®. This work/product/service has been developed independently from and is not endorsed by the College Board®. 

Reviews

Rated 3 out of 5 stars.
Based on 2 reviews
2 reviews
  • ESPApr 02
    Rated 2 out of 5 stars.
    Verified
    Politically biased?

    In a public school setting, it's best to use scientific content without obvious political references/bias. The direct reference to Elon Musk and Joe Rogan made it offensive to some students/families and revealed a possible ulterior motive to the free resource.

    Science Outside•
    Apr 02

    Thank you for your feedback. Our case studies do not endorse any viewpoints or public figures. This was an April Fools' case study (intended as a lighthearted educational exercise) but it included many real references. The NASA image, their official explanation, and Elon Musk and Joe Rogan’s discussion of it were factual elements. Musk even suggested we should travel there to check it out. As science educators, we reference a wide range of public figures (including scientists, environmentalists, and historical leaders) when relevant to the topic. We take no political stance whatsoever, and we sincerely apologize if these references were perceived as anything other than factual context. Please know that no offense or ulterior motive was intended.

  • Jack HApr 01
    Rated 4 out of 5 stars.
    Great but late

    This is a great resource and would be really fun to do and tie in with April Fools. But for me to receive it at 9:30pm on March 31 doesn't really let me work it into my lesson plan for the next day. Having it a week or two ago would've made it much better.

    Science Outside•
    Apr 01

    Hi Jack!


    Thanks for reaching out, and sorry this got to you so late! Are you new to Science Outside? We launched this at the end of February and first announced it via email on March 3rd. Last night's email was just a reminder, but you're absolutely right, we should have sent it much earlier!


    Regardless, I hope you and your students have a great time with it. And hey, maybe the real April Fools’ prank is celebrating on April 2nd? That would definitely keep them on their toes! Have a wonderful day!

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