Grades 3–12 (Kit)
Journey to Planet Zorcon in the year 2094. Earth’s natural resources are nearly exhausted, and much of the planet’s water is polluted. Scientists have discovered a new world—Planet Zorcon—rich with abundant, pollution‑free resources. Students take on the role of a resource recovery team tasked with gathering, evaluating, and managing materials that could help sustain life back on Earth.
Working in collaborative teams, students assume specific roles as they collect samples, manage limited supplies, and make critical decisions about resource use. Teachers guide the simulation using the Planet Zorcon Mission slides, which provide step‑by‑step instructions for facilitating the activity, assigning roles, pacing the investigation, and leading reflection and discussion. Through this immersive, hands‑on experience, students explore sustainability and human impact while distinguishing between renewable resources that can be replenished over time and nonrenewable resources that exist in finite supply.
Downloads
- Planet Zorcon Mission (Google Slides)
Step-by-step instructions to guide the activity with your class, including role assignments, procedures, and discussion prompts.
Kit Contents
- Plastic storage bin with lid
- Gallon-sized Ziploc bags
- Planet Zorcon Resources:
- Wheat seeds
- Cotton balls
- Corn
- Toothpicks
- Soybeans
- Pinto or brown beans
- Shell macaroni
- Spiral macaroni
- Elbow macaroni
- Paper clips
- Black beans
- Amber pebbles
- Sequins
- 1" roofing nails
- Silver balls
- White beans
- 2" pieces of spaghetti
- Duct tape
- 8' × 10' tarp
- Plastic spoons
- Plastic cups
- Zorcon Research Staff ID Badges
- Yarn
- Resource Inventory activity sheet master
Lesson Plans
Use this kit with the featured lesson Planet Zorcon on the National Agricultural Literacy Curriculum Matrix. The lesson provides detailed instructions, background information, and discussion questions.
Extend the Learning
Have students compare the fictional planet to Earth’s resource challenges. Encourage them to brainstorm careers in conservation, resource management, and renewable energy, and present ideas for creating a sustainable future.