• A visit to the Hayden Planetarium and preliminary research were the starting points that helped develop the 5th grade students' understanding of the possibilities of a future settlement on Mars. Working in groups, children discussed the obstacles that would need to be overcome in order for a colony on the planet to thrive. The presentation boards, SketchUp blueprints and  3-D  models on display showcased the critical thinking, problem solving, creativity and cooperation skills they employed to meet those challenges.