Teaching tools > Science content reading > Overview: Exploring the Universe during IYA

Description:

Star Witness news story: Exploring the Universe during IYA IYA explains that during 2009, a different celestial object will be featured each month in celebration of the International Year of Astronomy. Information related to these objects can be found on the Amazing Space Web site.

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: Exploring the Universe during IYA 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 know about celestial objects.

• An inquiry tool. Propose a question, such as "Why do you think the United Nations chose 2009 as the International Year of Astronomy?” Have students read the selection and write down questions they want answered as a result of the reading.

• A source of information. Have students read the selection. Conduct a class discussion using the questions associated with the reading.

Related materials

Use the Warped Galaxy PDF and the Whirlpool Galaxy PDF lithographs to compare edge-on and face-on views of spiral galaxies as demonstrated in the Graphic Organizer: Comparison of the Warped Galaxy and the Whirlpool Galaxy.

Telescopes From the Ground Up: Explore the history of telescopes, from Galileo to NASA's Great Observatories.

Teaching tools > Science content reading > Overview: Exploring the Universe during IYA