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The Rockwell Adventures – Solar System Expedition

Join the Rockwell family on their Top Secret mission to colonize a new planet.  This fun-filled educational tour of the Solar System teaches students basic facts about each of the planets, and challenges them to design a base that is appropriate for the planet they choose to colonize.

Workbook Overview

Buckle up, and launch the following video to see the workbook in action!

What’s Included

Student Activity Books: Professionally printed and bound copies of this STEM-Focused, Augmented Reality enhanced educational activity book.

Teacher’s Manual: PDF versions of the Teacher’s Manual associated with this book.  This manual includes easy to print copies of all worksheets that students will consume as part of the lesson.

Lesson Resources

This section contains Teacher’s Manuals for Solar System Expedition, as well as resources that the staff at StoneOak Media, and several collaborating educators have put together to enhance the basic lesson contained in these books.  If you’re an educator that has developed extra content supporting these lesson, contact us today.  We’re always looking for ways to expand the Solar System Expedition experience!

TitlePriceDownload
Data Analysis: Worksheets students can use to plot the measurements they've recorded.Free
Large Format Base Design Page: This legal paper (8.5" x 14") formatted base design page provides students with more space to sketch their designs. Free

Teacher's Manual Elementary School VersionFree
Teacher's Manual Middle School VersionFree

Customer Reviews

Note: To write a review, complete the form at the bottom of this page.

Middle School Teacher in Chicago

March 29, 2023

We’ve been using this lesson in our class for about 4 years, even during the pandemic. It really is the easiest way to teach students about the Solar System. The students also always get so excited about the design portions. Keep the great products coming!

E S

Produto excelente!

March 21, 2022

Usei a demonstração gratuita e adorei!! Ótima experiência para os alunos!! Parabéns!

(Translation: I used the free demo and loved it!! Great experience for students!! Congratulations!)

Edilene V

Fantastic Lesson

November 10, 2021

Primary teacher in Sydney Australia here. My students love this lesson! We’ve used it for several years now, and the students get so excited about learning. We just ordered the Water Cycle books, and can’t wait to try them!

Jill A

Sugestão

January 25, 2021

Brazil: Já usei o modelo gratuito com meus alunos e adorei! Gostaria que houvessem mais opções de usar gratuitamente nas escolas públicas do interior

(I’ve used the free template with my students and I loved it! I wish there were more options to use for free in public schools in the interior)

Edilene V

Thank You!!!

April 10, 2020

Thank you StoneOak Media, for making amazing science products like this available for FREE during the CV-19 crisis. My students, all of who are now learning remotely, have really taken learning to the next level with this book, and Water Cycle Engineer. They’ve been so EXCITED, when I speak with them after these lessons. THANK YOU!!!

Maria C

Pricing & Purchasing Options

Single Copy Print Edition

$19.95 /
This professionally printed book provides everything a student needs to begin exploring the Solar System!

Grade 2-5 Library / Classroom Package

$448.87 /
Formatted for use in a classroom/library setting, this package provides enough copies so that every student in a standard 25 person class can have their own copy.  This package also includes a PDF-based teacher’s manual containing digital copies of all student consumables.  Pricing is ($19.95/book) x (25 books) x (10% Discount).

Grade 6-8 Library / Classroom Package

$538.65 /
Formatted for use in a classroom/library setting, this package provides enough copies so that every student in a standard 30 person class can have their own copy.  This package also includes a PDF-based teacher’s manual containing digital copies of all student consumables. Pricing is ($19.95/book) x (30 books) x (10% Discount).

About the Workbook

The Rockwell Adventures – Solar System Expedition is the first book in the Rockwell Adventures Series.  Designed for home, classroom, and library use, it takes students on a hands-on tour of the Solar System. State and national curriculum aligned STEM-focused student activities include:

BackCover6_cropped_250pxTall
  • Measuring Each Planet: Using the FREE Zappar Augmented Reality app for iOS and Android, students are able to scan selected pages of the book to view, interact with, and measure photo-realistic 3D models of each planet.  Measurements students record include documenting each planet’s temperature, diameter, and length of day.
  • Exploring Each Planet: The adventure doesn’t end there.  Using the Zappar Augmented Reality app, students are enabled to send virtual probes to each planet’s surface to better understand conditions there.  Additional measurements performed on the surface include determining the surface type (solid, liquid, or gas), and measuring each planet’s gravity relative to Earth’s.
  • Designing a Suitable Base: Based on what the students record in their notes after visiting and measuring each planet, they are asked to both choose a planet where they would build a base, and produce a sketch of this base.  Students are encouraged to design a base that will be able to accommodate the conditions they previously recorded on the planet they chose.

Test Drive The Mars Tour!

On the page shown below, students are asked to measure various aspects of the planet Mars.  Once completed, these measurements are then recorded by the students within the “Exploration Notes” page of the workbook (shown above).  At the end of the overall lesson/mission, students are then asked to use these measurements and others as a guide to help them determine which planet they would like to build a base on.  Once they’ve selected a planet, these measurements then serve as a guide to help students build the right kind of base.

To try this experience for yourself, simply install the FREE Zappar app (iOS / Android) on a tablet or smartphone, and follow these simple directions:

Request a More Information

Each of our titles is $19.95/book. The accompanying Teacher’s Manual and Zappar augmented reality app are free. Books are normally sold as part of a package that contain enough copies so that each student/participant has their own book when completing the lesson. The lesson related posters shown above are included in these packages. Complete the form below to help us find the right solution for you.

How can we assist you?

Write a Review

Note: Reviews are typically published within 24 hours of submission.

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Curriculum Standards Alignment

K – 2nd Grade:

  • – K-2-ETS1-1 Engineering Design: Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
  • – K-2-ETS1-2 Engineering Design: Develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem.
  • – 1-ESS1 Earth’s Place in the Universe: Use observations of the sun, moon, and stars to describe patterns that can be predicted

Grade 3:

  • – 3-5-ETS1-1 Engineering Design: Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
  • – 3-5-ETS1-2 Engineering Design: Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

Grade 4:

  • – 3-5-ETS1-1 Engineering Design: Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
  • – 3-5-ETS1-2 Engineering Design: Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

Grade 5:

  • – 3-5-ETS1-1 Engineering Design: Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
  • – 3-5-ETS1-2 Engineering Design: Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely

Middle School (6-8)

    • – MS-ESS1-3 Earth’s Place in the Universe: Analyze and interpret data to determine scale properties of objects in the solar system.
    • – MS-ETS1-1 Engineering Design: Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relevant scientific principles and potential impacts on people and the natural environment that may limit possible solutions.
    • – MS-ETS1-2 Engineering Design: Evaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
  • – MS-ETS1-3 Engineering Design: Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions to identify the best characteristics of each that can be combined into a new solution to better meet the criteria for success

Grade 1:

  • – 112.12 (2) Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: (a) Collecting data and making simple observations, (c) record and organize data, (e) communicate observations
  • – 112.12 (4) Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: (a) collect, record, and compare information using tools, including computers, primary balances, notebooks, timers, thermometers.
  • – 112.12 (5) Matter & Energy: (a) classify objects by observable properties such as larger and smaller, heavier and lighter

Grade 2:

  • – 112.13 (2) Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: (a) collect data from observations using balances, thermometers,, (d) record and organize data using pictures, numbers, and words, (e) communicate observations
  • – 112.13 (3) Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: (a) identify and explain a problem and propose a solution.
  • – 112.13 (4) Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: (a) collect, record, and compare information using tools, including computers, rulers, primary balances, notebooks,; timing devices, including stopwatches; weather instruments such as thermometers
  • – 112.13 (5) Matter & Energy: (a) classify matter by physical properties, including relative mass, relative temperature, and whether material is a solid or liquid;

Grade 3:

  • – 112.14 (2): Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: (a) Using equipment to solve problems, (b) collecting data, (c) graphing data, (d) analyze data, (f) communicate conclusion
  • – 112.14 [4]: Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: (a) Collect, record, analyze data using cameras, computers, metric rulers, thermometers, Sun, Earth, Moon system models, timing devices
  • – 112.14 [5]: Matter & Energy: [a] measure, test, and record physical properties of matter, including temperature, mass, [b] classify matter
  • – 112.14 [8]: Earth & Space: [d] Identify planets in the Solar System
  • – 112.14 [9]: Organisms & Environment: Observe and describe the physical characteristics of environments and how they support populations and communities within an ecosystem;

Grade 4:

  • – 112.15 (2): Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: (b) collect and record data by observing and measuring, using the metric system, and using descriptive words and numerals such as labeled drawings, writing. (c) construct simple tables, charts, bar graphs. (d) analyze data and interpret patterns. (f) communicate validresults supported by data.
  • – 112.15 (2): Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: Collect, record, analyze data using cameras, computers, metric rulers, thermometers, Sun, Earth, Moon system models, timing devices
  • – 112.15 [5]: Matter & Energy: (a)measure, compare, and contrast physical properties of matter, including size, mass, volume, states (solid, liquid, gas), temperature,

Grade 5:

  • – 112.16 (2): Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: (c) Collect information by detailed observations and accurate measuring. (g) construct appropriate simple graphs, tables to organize, examine, and evaluate information.
  • – 112.16 [6]: Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: (a) Collect, record, analyze data using cameras, computers, metric rulers, thermometers, Sun, Earth, Moon system models, timing devices
  • – 112.16 [5]: Matter & Energy: [a] classify matter based on physical properties, including mass and physical state (solid, liquid, and gas).
  • – 112.16 [8]: Earth & Space: [d] identify and compare the physical characteristics of the Sun, Earth

Grade 6:

  • – 112.18 (2) Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: (a) collect and record data using the International System of Units (SI) and qualitative means such as labeled drawings, writing, and graphic organizers; (D) construct tables and graphs, using repeated trials and means, to organize data and identify patterns; and (E) analyze data to formulate reasonable explanations, communicate valid conclusions supported by the data, and predict trends.
  • – 112.18 (4) Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: (a) collect, record, and compare information using tools, including computers, rulers, primary balances, notebooks,; timing devices, including stopwatches; weather instruments such as thermometers
  • – 112.18 (6) Earth & Space: (a) describe the physical properties, locations, and movements of the Sun, planets. (c) describe the history and future of space exploration, including the types of equipment and transportation needed for space travel.

Grade 7:

  • – 112.19 (2) Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: (b) collect and record data using the International System of Units (SI) and qualitative means such as labeled drawings, writing, and graphic organizers; (d) construct tables and graphs, using repeated trials and means, to organize data and identify patterns; and (e) analyze data to formulate reasonable explanations, communicate valid conclusions supported by the data, and predict trends.
  • – 112.19 (8) Earth & Space: The student knows components of our solar system. The student is expected to (a) analyze the characteristics of objects in our solar system that allow life to exist such as the proximity of the Sun, presence of water, and composition of the atmosphere; and (B) identify the accommodations, considering the characteristics of our solar system, that enabled manned space exploration.

Grade 8:

    • – 112.20 (2): Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: (c)collect and record data using the International System of Units (SI) and qualitative means such as labeled drawings, writing, and graphic organizers; (d) construct tables and graphs, using repeated trials and means, to organize data and identify patterns; and (e) analyze data to formulate reasonable explanations, communicate valid conclusions supported by the data, and predict trends.
  • – 112.20 [4]: Scientific Investigation & Reasoning: (a) use appropriate tools to collect, record, and analyze information, including lab journals/notebooks, meter sticks, balances, thermometers, computers, timing devices, and other equipment as needed to teach the curriculum

Grade 2:

Physical Science: Properties of Matter

– 2.P.8.1: Observe and measure objects in terms of their properties, including size, shape, color, temperature, weight, texture, sinking or floating in water, and attraction and repulsion of magnets.

– 2.P.8.2: Identify objects and materials as solid, liquid, or gas.

Nature of Science: The Practice of Science

– 2.N.1.1: Raise questions about the natural world, investigate them in teams through free exploration and systematic observations, and generate appropriate explanations based on those explorations.

Grade 3:

Physical Science: Properties of Matter

– 3.P.8.1: Measure and compare temperatures of various samples of solids and liquids.

– 3.P.8.3: Compare materials and objects according to properties such as size, shape, color, texture, and hardness.

Nature of Science: The Practice of Science

– 3.N.1.1: Raise questions about the natural world, investigate them individually and in teams through free exploration and systematic investigations, and generate appropriate explanations based on those explorations.

– 3.N.1.3: Keep records as appropriate, such as pictorial, written, or simple charts and graphs, of investigations conducted.

Grade 5:

Physical Science: Properties of Matter:

– 5.P.8.1: Compare and contrast the basic properties of solids, liquids, and gases, such as mass, volume, color, texture, and temperature.

Earth and Space Science: Earth in Space and Time

– SC.5.E.5.2: Recognize the major common characteristics of all planets and compare/contrast the properties of inner and outer planets.

Nature of Science: The Practice of Science

– 5.N.1.1: Define a problem, use appropriate reference materials to support scientific understanding, plan and carry out scientific investigations of various types such as: systematic observations, experiments requiring the identification of variables, collecting and organizing data, interpreting data in charts, tables, and graphics, analyze information, make predictions, and defend conclusions.

Grade 8: 

Earth and Space Science: Earth in Space and Time

– 8.E.5.3: Distinguish the hierarchical relationships between planets and other astronomical bodies relative to solar system, galaxy, and universe, including distance, size, and composition.

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  • My kids (ok who am I to kid, I LOVED IT!) loved this augmented reality workbook [Solar System Expedition]! As an advocate for getting kids to use screen-time to enrich learning, this is truly a one-of-a-kind product
    Amanda Boyarshinov The Educator’s Spin On It Blog
  • My students loved my lesson today as we began our Rockwell Adventures- Solar System Expedition. The first day is always my absolute favorite. There is nothing like the initial looks on their faces or the amazement in their voices. She [the District Science Specialist] liked the way that I incorporate it with the Stemscopes program that we also use for science in our district. [...] Keep on producing these amazing books, you are making a difference in our classrooms!
    3rd Grade Teacher Walnut Creek Elementary, New Braunfels, TX
  • I'm a Science teacher in a secondary school in the UK, I wanted to say thank you very much for the Rockwell Adventures space exploration series, they are truly amazing resources to use in the classroom, my students were so excited and engaged in Science, something which has been lacking recently.
    Lead Teacher and Year 9 Coordinator Hastings and St Leonards Academies - H.A.S.L.A, Brighton, U.K.
  • [...] I have used the “Solar System Expedition” and the “Water Cycle Engineer” programs in my classes with both fifth and sixth grade.  The students were very engaged and excited with this new technology.
    Science Teacher Asa E. Low Jr. Intermediate, Mansfield, TX
  • [...] If you want to see 100% engagement and inquiry-based learning, I definitely recommend it. It’s technology based, but also easy for teachers to navigate with very little prep. Thank you again for the amazing product!
    4th Grade Teacher Miami Yoder Elementary School, Rush CO