Origin of Life
Summary
This module explores various hypotheses concerning the origins of life on planet Earth and their plausibility when applied to Mars.
Learning Goals
Students will be able to:
- Explain the conditions of the Miller-Urey Experiment
- Define "life" and the requirements for life
- Determine if the Miller-Urey Experiment has applicability on Mars
Context for Use
This module is meant for adaptation in an Earth science course, particularly a segment discussing Pre-Cambrian/Hadean environmental conditions on Earth. Biology instructors are also encouraged to adapt this material.
Description and Teaching Materials
Compiled In-Class Activities and Homework
- Instructor Version (Acrobat (PDF) 583kB Nov20 16)
- Student Version (Acrobat (PDF) 508kB Nov20 16)
In-Class Activity
- In-Class Activity 1: Miller-Urey Experiment
- Student Version (Acrobat (PDF) 393kB Nov20 16); Instructor Version (Acrobat (PDF) 564kB Nov20 16)
- In-Class Activity 2: Mars Life: Through the Lens of MSL Curiosity
- Student Version (Acrobat (PDF) 484kB Nov20 16); Instructor Version (Acrobat (PDF) 567kB Nov20 16)
Teaching Notes and Tips
- Encourage a discussion about the requirements for life and what "life" means in the In-Class Activity
- Have students determine the viability of the Miller-Urey Experiment as a theory for the origin of life.
Assessment
Methods of assessment are within each individual In-Class Activity and Homework.
References and Resources
- Miller-Urey Experiment YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iahBQolXQH8
- NASA Astrobiology Institute- NAI: https://astrobiology.nasa.gov/nai/