From the Internet to Outer Space

Submitted by smileadmin on Sat, 06/04/2011 - 02:19

Source Institution

  • National Museum of American History

Keywords

Add to List
Go to Activity
5
1

Description

In this activity, learners will use Google Sky to observe features of the night sky and share their observations. Learners partake in a "Telescope Treasure Hunt" as they look for suggested astronomical objects, and then they can design their own hunt for another learner. An included reading, "Step Back in Time" introduces learners to Maria Mitchell, the first American woman to discover a new comet, and a recommended book can take this historical connection further. This activity will allow learners to practice their observation skills by looking at things carefully, drawing sketches, and writing short descriptions as well as consider how astronomy technology has evolved over the years. This lesson guide includes tips and useful information specifically for parents and educators.

Quick Guide

  • Preparation Time: Under 5 minutes
  • Learning Time: 10 to 30 minutes
  • Estimated materials cost: free
  • Age Range: Ages 4 - 11
  • Resource Types:
  • Language: English

Materials List (per student)

Subjects

Informal Categories

  • Computers
  • Literature
  • Nature and Environment

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Astronomy
      • Stars and Galaxies
      • Light and Optics
      • Size and Scale
    • Solar System
      • The Moon
      • The Planets
      • Asteroids and Comets
  • Engineering and Technology
    • Technology
      • Information and Communication
  • Mathematics
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Analysis
      • Data Collection
      • Data Representation
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations
      • Communicating Results
    • Science as a Career
  • The Nature of Technology
    • Technology and Society
      • Impacts of Technology
      • Technology and History
    • The Design Process
      • Invention and Innovation
Place and Time

Time

  • 1800s
Audience

To use this activity learners need to

  • see
  • see color
  • read
  • use keyboard
  • use mouse
  • touch

Learning styles supported

  • Links STEM to other topics of interest such as arts and humanities
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Culture, ethnicity, and gender

    Girls

    • Acknowledges this group's contributions to STEM
    • Addresses bias against this group
    • Identifies role models or mentors in STEM fields from this group

Other

Components that are part of this resource

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of

By

Kenneth E. Behring Center, Smithsonian National Museum of American History

Rights

All Rights Reserved, Smithsonian Institution,

Funding sources

  • Verizon Foundation, http://thinkfinity.org/about.aspx

ShareThis

Comments

Deborah Lee Rose
Maria Mitchell, woman astronomer
Submitted by Deborah Lee Rose on Mon, 09/12/2011 - 15:59.
0
5

This activity highlights the work of astronomer Maria Mitchell and could be an excellent activity for Women's History Month.