COMPARING EARTH AND MARS: APPLYING UDL TO CREATE A MIDDLE SCHOOL SCIENCE MODULE

We have created an education module that utilizes prototype 3-D representations of Olympus Mons and the Hawaiian Islands as a tool teach middle school students topographic concepts and geologic processes. The lesson topics focus on landforms, comparing solar system objects, and visualizing data. These topics are core educational concepts for grades 5-8 in both The National Research Council’s "National Science Education Standards" and Project 2061’s "Benchmarks for Science Literacy". Following the major tenet of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), the module is designed to meet the needs of as many students as possible. The module makes use of high-resolution topographic data of Earth and Mars through the use of 3-D models, topographic contour maps and profiles. The 3-D models are an accurate representation of the three-dimensional character of a planetary surface that is often difficult for students to visualize from 2-dimensional maps.

In this paper we will outline the process employed to create materials that build upon the utility of the 3-D models. The education module was created with the three principles of UDL in mind: 1) representing information in multiple formats and media; 2) providing multiple pathways for students’ action and expression; and 3) providing multiple ways to engage students’ interest and motivation (D.Rose & A. Meyer, 2002). The module will be initially distributed as kits that include the 3-D models and a set of lesson developed to guide students in their exploration of the topographic data and geologic processes. Future plans include the production of additional Earth-Mars comparisons such as Antarctica and the Mars north pole, and the Grand Canyon and Mars outflow channels, as well as the creation of a website that will include lesson plans, data sets and a variety of images and animations.

Rose, D and Meyer, A. "Teaching Every Student in the Digital Age: Universal Design for Learning"; ASCD: 2002