Student resources
Many teachers have asked for links that their students may investigate on-line for information about a variety of topics related to the Tomatosphere Project. The following information is for the use of the teacher to direct students to appropriate links for further information, activities or research associated with Tomatosphere.
One of the best and most comprehensive STUDENT-oriented web sites is that of the Canadian Space Agency. It offers a wide range of information for students in both official languages. The section on the web site for youth and educators contains the following "KidSpace" topics:
During the summer, the Canadian Space Agency offers a teacher conference, usually during the second or third week of August in Montreal. This conference is an absolutely fantastic professional development opportunity for teachers. The cost is minimal ($25) for the three days. Teachers must cover this cost plus transportation, accommodation and meals. Even so, it is a GREAT bargain.
Teachers bring home many student related activities as well as being motivated by a wonderful team of individuals including our Canadian astronauts. Watch for details about the 2008 conference.
More information can be obtained from the CSA website
NASA has a web site with information about Mars and agriculture:
Other websites offer ideas and activities specific to a particular topic. For example, NASA has a Farming in Space activity that may be downloaded from the International Space Station Challenge web site. Students are encouraged to design original experiments to provide information on how plants can help humans survive in space:
The University of Arizona (in cooperation with NASA) has developed some excellent student activities - all backed up with teacher resources and background material on a variety of topics including the scientific process and building a very simple rocket, mapping the surface of Mars and "Mars-bound - Journey to the Red Planet":
The Space Science Institute has a variety of student activities, from primary through secondary school:
Heinz offers some online resources that are sure to inform or provide some fun for students.
- For information about Heinz Seeds, which are used exclusively in Heinz Ketchup and other tomato-based products, visit www.heinzseed.com.
- To test knowledge of tomato trivia, check out the "Fun Facts" in the Heinz Kids section at www.heinzitup.com/heinzkidz.asp.
- To challenge virtual tomato-squishing skills, play "Tomatomania" in the Heinz Kids section at www.heinzitup.com/heinzkidz.asp.
Tomatosphere is sponsored by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the Canadian Space Agency, Heinz Canada, H.J. Heinz Company Foundation, Ontario Centres of Excellence, Stokes Seeds and the University of Guelph.
