Teresa’s Big Idea:
Teresa’s project was two-fold. Students studied the path of the Sun and the Moon in reference to our place on Earth over the course of the school year. Students used telescopes to collect data and plot the path of the Sun and Moon. The students looked at cyclic patterns that included seasons and phases of the moon. During the project, students predicted sunrise and sunset, position of the Sun and Moon, and Eclipses based on the data collected. Students learned how to examine the structure and function of the Sun and connected it with light, energy, and how it affects matter. The culminating event was a STEAM Fair.
Objectives included:
- Asking questions about how our world works and finding the answers;
- Investigating using mathematics and computational thinking while planning and carrying out investigations of the Sun;
- Analyzing and interpreting data collections;
- Constructing models and explanations about the cause and effect of the position of the Earth, Moon, and Sun;
- Predicting upcoming solar or lunar events based on patterns;
- Communicating and explaining seasons and how the Sun gives energy and drives systems on Earth;
- Planning and presenting their findings at a STEAM Fair for the entire school, community, and parents.
Interesting Fact:
Teresa allowed her students to choose the the photo they think represents her best. Her pets include her calf “Houdini” and mountain cur dog “Banjo”!