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For Students

Activity  

Assessment  

For Teachers

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Background

Introduction
Although it is difficult to imagine, the International Space Station (ISS), when completed, will be longer and wider than a football field. Only astronauts will actually experience it fully assembled. This activity will allow you to envision the actual dimensions of the completed ISS as it orbits the Earth. In the activity, you'll work in teams to assemble a full-scale, two-dimensional outline. Once you're done, you can even invite other students and community members on a tour!

Objectives
Image that reads Did you know... When it is complete, the International Space Station will be longer and wider than a football field! For this activity, your class will work in teams to:

  • Convert scale dimensions to determine the actual size of the International Space Station.
  • Lay out a full-scale perimeter outline of the ISS.


Materials
Part 1 (Calculations, Sketches, and Planning)

  • International Space Station Layout (Figure 1)
  • Metric rulers (1 per person)
  • Calculators OR computer with spreadsheet program (at least 1 per team)
  • Paper for team sketches

Part 2 (Physical Layout)

  • Metric or English "measuring wheels," and/or meter sticks or measuring tapes and human "pacers"
  • String or flagging tape (approx. 6000 ft - add extra distances if you lay out material for reference lines)
  • Items to fix tape/string to the ground (400 brightly colored golf tees, weights, pegs, masking tape, etc.)
  • 9 road hazard cones or other easily visible field markers
  • Scissors to cut tape (at least 1 pair per team

Image of Figure 1: International Space Station Layout. Please have someone assist you with this.

 

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