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Astronomy

Astronomy

Program Description:

This free resource package will help you to share the wonders of the night sky with your students. Students can observe how the movement of our planet influences our daily rituals, the changing of seasons, and the environment as a whole. They can learn about the variety of technological tools that make modern Astronomy possible. As well, they can discover how the work of Canadian astronomers and organizations, past and present, has contributed to our worldwide knowledge of the Universe.

To access these classroom activities and resources, just download the Virtual Exploration Guide. The activities in this guide focus on the Astronomy in Canada through students’ study of science, technology, history, social studies, and the environment. Teachers can adapt these lesson ideas and resources to their own needs – focusing on one curricular area, or pursuing a multi-disciplinary approach.

The Astronomy Exploration Guide can be downloaded in two formats. You can download the entire Guide as a single file (.pdf file (210 Mb)), or access it as a series of independent modules. Worksheets for the modules can be reproduced as necessary for use in your classroom.

Modules:

Introduction

Find out what this Virtual Exploration Guide can do for you! This section explains aspects of the Exploration Guide, and includes references and curriculum links.

Science in the Skies: Discovering our Universe

Explore our Solar System! Discover why we have day and night, as well as different seasons. Examine how the Earth’s movement allows us to keep time using sundials. Discover the planets, and visualize the immense scale of our galaxy. Trace the lifecycle of a star.

Tools of the Trade: The Technology of Astronomy

Astronomers use a wide variety of scientific tools and equipment. Measure the sun’s heat using a thermometer. Learn about the inner workings of different types of optical telescopes. Discover exciting astronomy artifacts from the Museum’s collection. Research Canada’s observatories and international observatory partnerships.

Astronomy, Canada, and Society

Space, and our study of space, touches our lives in many ways. Examine how our daily rituals are tied to the Earth’s rotation. Research Canadian astronomers, past and present, who have made interesting contributions to the study of the Universe. Discover how Native Canadians, and other cultures worldwide, have interpreted the constellations through legends and myths. Examine how astronomical study in Canada is supported by a variety of organizations and institutions.

Astronomy and our Environment

The Earth’s movement has many effects on our environment. Consider how seasonal changes affect our lifestyles throughout the year. Discover the broader impact of seasonal change on animal migration and agriculture. Learn about why the tide changes, and how this impacts the environment. Examine the Aurora Borealis, and learn about the effects solar winds.

How to View and Print the Exploration Guide

Separate modules of our Exploration Guide are provided as Adobe Acrobat PDF files. If you do not have Acrobat® Reader, please click here to download it from the Adobe® Web site.

Tell Us What You Want to Know!

Is there something else you'd like to see in our Exploration Guide?

Questions?

Questions about virtual school programs should be sent to programs@ingeniumcanada.org

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