Film Assignment – Earth in Space

Dear Parents/Guardians,As the year wraps up, the 8th grade science department plans to

watch “The Martian” from Monday, May 30th to Thursday, June 2nd. The synopsis of the film is as follows:

During a manned mission to Mars, Astronaut Mark Watney is presumed dead after a fierce storm and left behind by his crew. But Watney has survived and finds himself stranded and alone on the hostile planet. With only meager supplies, he must draw upon his ingenuity, wit and spirit to subsist and find a way to signal to Earth that he is alive. Millions of miles away, NASA and a team of international scientists work tirelessly to bring "the Martian" home, while his crewmates concurrently plot a daring, if not impossible, rescue mission. As these stories of incredible bravery unfold, the world comes together to root for Watney's safe return (from imdb.com).

We have decided to show this film in particular because of its ties to our Earth in Space Unit as well as the tie to controversial science topics in ELA class. A manned mission to Mars is inevitable at this point in our civilization, but there are many ethical and moral questions that still need to be answered before we can make the journey. This film, as far as near-future technologies goes, is a fantastic mix of space exploration and the human element of science. We hope to show this film to enrich your student’s perspective on this exciting frontier.

Because of the nature of the film, there is strong language, injury images, and brief nudity. If you have questions or concerns, please contact Mr. Michaletz.

The movie is rated PG-13 and will take three and a half (3.5) class periods.

I give my child permission to watch “The Martian.”

I do NOT give my child permission to watch “The Martian” and would like him/her to do an alternative assignment

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