The Universe and it's Stars

Introduction

*Star Forms*

*Did you know there are stars that make pictures?*

*Would you like to make your own star forms?*

Task

Today you will be making a star form with a flashlight.

Figure out as a group how to make a star form with a flashlight.

Process

Step 1: Watch the video: "I Want to Know: Stars and Constellations"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNDw1qD4jNM

Step 2: Get from your teacher the paper called "Constellation Cards". This paper has star form pictures.

Cut on the dotted lines.

Step 3: Work in a group. Pick a star form from your paper to look up facts about the star.

Use these websites.

http://www.freewebs.com/benatargrl/constellations.htm

http://www.ducksters.com/science/physics/constellations.php

Each student will look up one star form. And answer the question: What is the star form of? Is it an animal?

  • Ursa Minor
  • Orion- The Hunter  
  • Cassiopeia
  • Scorpius
  • Leo

Next, find one fact  on the second website.

Step 4: Use your black circles to make your star form. Poke a hole in the paper for stars with your pencil.

Step 5:Use tape to put star circle on flashlight.

Step 6: Wait for your class. But you can test your star light on your desk.

Step 7: Tell the class about your star. Tell them which card it is from your worksheet.  And shine your flashlight with your star light on the wall with the lights off.

Evaluation

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have completed a Star Form.

Tonight try to go outside and see the star forms you learned about. Can you see them? If not, why do you think you can not?

Credits
Teacher Page

Next Generation Standard:

Space Systems: Patterns and Cycles

ESS1.A: The Universe and its Stars

Patterns of the motion of the sun, moon, and stars in the sky can be observed, described, and predicted.

http://www.nextgenscience.org/sites/ngss/files/1%20combined%20topics%206.11.13_1.pdf

Do Before Lesson:

Material:

  • Constellation Cards
  • Black Construction
  • Scissors
  • Pencils
  • Tape
  • Flashlights