Earth and Beyond   (click for a printable version)                         Timeline: 6 Weeks

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Define the electromagnetic spectrum and the basic astronomical tools do we use to "see" them
Demonstrate cause and effect relationships in the rotation and revolution and the tilt of the Earth
Demonstrate how moon phases and eclipses depend on the position of the earth, moon and sun
Describe and list physical data about the earth and other 7 (8?) planets in the solar system
Differentiate between asteroids, comets and meteorites
Understand the role and characteristics of the sun in our solar system
Calculate and compare the earth’s distance and size to the sun and other stars in the galaxy.
Evaluate different models of the solar system and their historic evolution

• Sections: Chapter 1  Section 1
• Sections: Chapter 2  Section 1,2
• Sections: Chapter 3  Section 1,2,3,4
• Sections: Chapter 4  Section 1,2

• Electromagnetic Spectrum
• Tide
• Orbit
• Rotation
• Reflecting Telescope
• Satellite 
• Solstice

• Ellipse
• Moon Phase
• Revolution
• Refracting Telescope
• Eclipse
• Axis
• Outer Planets

• Outer Planets
• Astronomical Unit
• Comet
• Meteor
• Asteroid
• Inner Planets
• Light Year

Be aware of the due dates as they are given.

In this section you are expected to choose one of the "Going Beyond" activities and complete it in the time given for the project. Different activities to choose from during this project are: "Word Origins", "Explain it to Jose", "Science in the News" and many more. Make sure you check out the new web page link "Going Beyond" to find out exactly what to do and how much it is worth.

             Telescopes: Use a model to get a better view of things.

• Question: How do the paths of light differ in a refracting and reflecting telescope?
• Materials: Candle, White Cardboard, Flashlight, Shiny Spoon, Assort. Mirrors, Paper Towel Roll

              Moon Phases: Make a model in your mind as we revolve and rotate along with the earth.

• Question: Can everyone on Earth see a solar or lunar eclipse at the same time?
• Materials: Light source, Globe, Book, Ball, Pencil

              Biking To The Stars: Take a trip across the universe on the bicycle

• Question: How far is it past Pluto to the next solar system?
• Materials: Adding machine tape, Meter stick and Pencil

             Solar Daze and Dials:  Lounge around and watch the day roll (or rotate?) by.

• Question: Can you use a protractor to tell time?
• Materials:  Planisphere, Protractor, Sun, Compass, Non-permanent marker

Universe Blow up: Use simple tools to help you better understand the shape of the universe

·        Question: How do galaxies move in the universe?

·        Materials: Balloon, Marker, Measurer, Tubing pincher

Star Power: Astronomy Night at Ridin' Hy with Mr. Andersen

·          Question:  Can you find your exact location in the dark?

·         Materials:  Astrolabe,  Stars,  Telescope and you