Grand Canyon of Mars
Teacher Activity Page

 
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    Background:
    In contrast to canyons on the earth, the planet Mars presents an opportunity to learn how extraterrestrial canyons are formed. This lesson offers clues to universal geologic processes and gives a broader perspective when examining, for example, the forces that caused the formation of the Black Canyon.
     
    Below is an excerpt of a web page that will be used in this lesson. Become familiar with this site (see link below) before engaging students in their exploration.
     
    Mars has many canyons and valleys, most of which were caused by the movement of the planet's crust. By examining these canyons and valleys, students gain insight into the processes that created them. Since the Grand Canyon of Mars is a rift valley and was not formed by water, this module focuses on processes that alter a planet's surface in the absence of flowing surface water such as uplift, slumping, sapping, and subsidence.
    From:  http://mpfwww.jpl.nasa.gov/education/modules/webpages/module3.htm
     
    Resources/Materials/Supplies
     
    Internet access
    Adobe Acrobat Reader installed
     
    Note: go to the Adobe site to obtain this free download software utility.
     
    Description:
     
    In this activity students will:
    • Describe several factors that influence the formation of a the Grand Canyon of Mars canyon including:
      • The effects of Geologic forces
      • Rock type of the canyon area (igneous, metaphoric. volcanic and sedimentary)
    Management Tips and Hints
     
    Begin with a discussion of "what makes a canyon a canyon" and create a list from the class of the common features and characteristics. Also create a list of areas they are unsure about and have further interest.
     
    Mention that this activity will take the class to another planet in our solar system. The planet Mars is our destination and the activities will examine the largest canyon we have ever discovered.
     
    The following are Adobe PDF files that contain the activities of this activity.
     
    Open these and print them first. After your review assign student teams or whole class arrangements to conduct those activities you select.
     
    The Grand Canyon of Mars and How It Formed
     
    Teacher Handbook:
     
    Canyons Activity 1: How Does the Uplift Affect a Planet's Surface?
     
    Canyons Activity 2: How Does the Flow of Groundwater Affect a Planet's
     
    Canyons Activity 3: What Happens When Material is Removed From Beneath a Surface?
     
    Canyons Activity 4: Case Study: How Did Valles Marineris Form?
     
    Image Set for "The Grand Canyon of Mars and How It Formed"