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Standard 5.9C Science
Standard: Space Science
Strand: Stars
Cumulative Progress Indicator: The student will observe that stars are not all the same in brightness, size, and color.
Grade: 4
Framework Activities
· Connect the Stars. Give student groups pieces of paper with stars in various positions. The students connect the stars to make an object and write a story that tells how the object entered the sky. Student groups act out their stories about their constellations. Next, students design constellation projectors using black construction paper and cardboard cylinders (such as oatmeal containers). They cut out black disks just a little larger than the end of the cylinder, punch holes to depict actual constellations, and tape these disks to one of the open ends of the tube. In a darkened room, students use flashlights to project their constellations on the classroom ceiling. As an extension activity, students punch holes outlining other objects. Classmates try to guess each new constellation. The ultimate extension would be to obtain a StarLab planetarium. StarLab is a large, inflatable planetarium that sets up in minutes. It can be obtained on loan from museums with outreach educational programs. Students crawl in and observe the night sky while appropriate music is played in the background. They identify constellations discovered through their own projects. Students listen to myths that reflect how different cultures regard the constellations. Examples exist in the folklore of Ethiopia, China, Native America, etc. Students ultimately develop some form of report that summarizes their discoveries about constellations and accompanying folktales.
Kidspiration Activity:
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