1-Pager
All grades  Project 2 weeks

"Cosmic Clues: Unpacking the Universe"

Thomas S
HS-ESS1-2
HS-ESS1-2
6-8.AF.6.3
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

This project invites students to explore the universe's composition and the mechanisms behind stars' light emission through hands-on investigations and collaborative discussions. Utilizing lab notebooks and teacher-led activities, students will engage in experiments and analyze astronomical evidence to construct and refine explanations of the Big Bang theory, focusing on concepts like redshift and cosmic background radiation. Through peer feedback and self-reflection, students will develop critical thinking skills, fostering a deeper understanding of how scientific theories and laws describe the natural world. The project culminates in a presentation and exhibition, where students share their findings and insights with peers and educators.

Learning goals

Students will explore the composition of the universe and the mechanisms by which stars generate light, focusing on emission spectra and redshift, through hands-on activities and teacher-led notes. They will use lab notebooks to collect and analyze astronomical evidence, developing skills in making inferences and constructing scientific explanations. Through peer review and self-reflection, students will revise their understanding of the Big Bang theory, incorporating feedback and additional evidence such as cosmic background radiation. The project will culminate in presentations where students articulate their findings and demonstrate their ability to critically evaluate and synthesize information.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-ESS1-2 - Construct an explanation of the Big Bang theory based on astronomical evidence of light spectra, motion of distant galaxies, and composition of matter in the universe.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-ESS1-2 - Construct an explanation of the Big Bang theory based on astronomical evidence of light spectra, motion of distant galaxies, and composition of matter in the universe.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] 6-8.AF.6.3 - Construct a scientific explanation based on valid and reliable evidence obtained from sources (including the students' own experiments) and the assumption that theories and laws that describe the natural world operate today as they did in the past and will continue to do so in the future.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will create a multimedia presentation, a one-pager, and maintain a detailed lab notebook that synthesizes their understanding of the universe's composition, star light generation, and evidence collection for the Big Bang Theory. These products will incorporate teacher-led notes, peer-reviewed revisions, and additional evidence, such as redshift and cosmic background radiation, to refine their explanations. The final exhibition will be presented to peers, teachers, and administrators, showcasing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Throughout the project, students will engage in hands-on labs and collaborative discussions to build and revise their products.

Launch

Begin the project with an immersive planetarium visit or virtual reality experience that simulates the universe's formation and expansion. Follow this with a hands-on lab where students use spectrometers to analyze light spectra from different sources, including distant galaxies and stars, and record their observations in their lab notebooks. Introduce the essential question through a collaborative brainstorming session, encouraging students to jot down initial thoughts and questions about the universe's expansion, supported by teacher-led discussions and activities.

Exhibition

Students will present their findings and explanations on the universe's expansion through a multimedia exhibition that includes digital presentations, models, and interactive displays. They will incorporate their lab notebooks and teacher-led notes and activities to supplement their project-based learning outcomes. The exhibition will showcase their work to peers, teachers, and administrators, fostering a collaborative environment for feedback and discussion. A gallery walk will allow attendees to engage with students, ask questions, and provide constructive feedback, highlighting critical thinking and problem-solving skills while promoting self-directed learning and academic mindset development.