Teaching tools > Comets > Overview: Comet Holmes

Description:

Star Witness news story: Returning Comet Holmes Dazzles Sky Watchers describes how a comet brightened suddenly in mid-October 2007. This unusual comet not only brightened as it moved away from the Sun, but it follows an unusual path — that of its cousins, the asteroids. Read about where this comet, visible to the naked eye, was found in the night sky.

Format(s) available: Printer-friendly web page

Grades: 5-8, but the material can be adapted for use in other grades at the teacher’s discretion

Teachers can use Star Witness news story: Returning Comet Holmes Dazzles Sky Watchers as:

• A content reading selection. Teachers should discuss the meaning of unfamiliar vocabulary prior to having students read this selection.

• An engagement activity. Have students read the selection. Ask them to explain what they have learned about Comet Holmes as a result of their reading.

• An inquiry tool. Propose a question, such as "What can scientists learn about the solar system from studying comets?” Have students read the selection and write down questions they would like answered as a result of the reading.

• A source of information for class discussion. Have students read the selection. Conduct a class discussion using the questions that accompany the reading to clarify student understanding and expand on the information provided.

Related materials

See the Comets section on "Teaching tools" page.

Teaching tools > Comets > Overview: Comet Holmes