AABC Educator Resources

Developed by the Arizona Astrobiology Center (AABC), these standards-aligned lesson plans and activities are designed to spark wonder and inquiry in K-12 classrooms.

From exploring the chemistry of life's origins to imagining ecosystems on distant planets, our materials emphasize interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, and the joy of discovery.

Click here for a list of astrobiology topics and their alignment to Arizona State Standards by grade. 

Space Explorers: An Introduction to Astrobiology

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Image of alien worlds in space

In this module, students will learn about the fascinating world of astrobiology and explore the exciting question: “Could life exist beyond Earth?”  

Grades
K-2

Language(s)
English, Spanish

Life in Space: Imagine, Explore, Discover!

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Artist illustratio of planet rising above horizon

This imagination-based astrobiology module immerses students in three hands-on, interactive experiences to explore the conditions for life in space. 

Grades
K-2

Language(s)
English, Spanish

Exploring Extreme Life

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An image of a hot spring

This module explores the extreme life forms that survive on the planet Earth, and why astrobiologists study these creatures to learn how life might survive on other worlds.

Grades
K-2

Language(s)
English, Spanish

Astrobiology Adventure: Plan, Build, Explore!

LEGOs

This three lesson module explores space missions and space exploration through mission planning, creative hands-on activities. 

Grades
K-2

Language(s)
English, Spanish

Astrobiology and Extreme Life

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AI generated image of a tardigrade

This module introduces students to the field of astrobiology and the study of extremophiles - organisms that thrive in extreme conditions. 

Grades
3-5, 6-8

Language(s)
English, Spanish, Persian

Your Mission in Space

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Creative innovation educational conceptual idea with happy little asian girl kid in astronaut suit doodle drawing

Students explore careers in space and work together to design their own space mission in these two lessons.

Grades
3-5, 6-8

Language(s)
English, Spanish, Persian

Tardigrade Observation Lab

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soil microorganisms including nematode, microarthropods, micro arthropod, tardigrade

Learn about the tardigrade and why astrobiologists love to study tardigrades! This lesson includes a comprehensive PowerPoint, plus a worksheet.

Grades
4-12

Language(s)
English

Preconceptions of Extraterrestrial Life

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Image of a child thinking

This lesson introduces students to the concept of extraterrestrial life by exploring fictional depictions and comparing them to real-world biological adaptations.

Grades
5-9

Language(s)
English

Astrobiology, OSIRIS-REx and The Search for the Origins of Life

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Illustration of the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft in flight

By delving into the realm of astrobiology research, students will explore how scientific choices are shaped when investigating the origins of life on Earth and beyond. 

Grades
6-8

Language(s)
English

Imagining Life Beyond Earth

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giant alien plant with bioluminescent leaves, purple sky, strange creatures, glowing terrain

“Imagining Life Beyond Earth” is a series of five lessons meant as an exploratory experience of astrobiology. These lessons are also offered separately on the Astrobiology Center’s website.

Grades
6-8

Language(s)
English

Sustainability and Life in the Future

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Desert scene

The definition of astrobiology includes the future of life - both on Earth and beyond. This section contains links to resources created by other organizations, with a focus on sustainability.

Grades
K-12

Language(s)
English