Newton and Copernicus: Lesson #15
1: Newton is experiencing more neural stimulation. What is he learning right now? What
other subjects will be taught to him?
2: What kind of electronic storage device is used to hold the data that he is learning?
3: Look at the background information. What is the name of the equipment that Newton
stands on when he receives neural stimulation?
4: How long will the session last? What information supports your answer?
5: The thought bubble shows us what Newton is seeing in his head. Why do you think each
of the images resembles a rat?
A Newton and Copernicus Companion: Copyright August 2007, J.C. Olson.
Newton and Copernicus: Lesson #15
LESSON GUIDE:
Vocabulary: convey, discern, consensus
Academic Vocabulary: phonics, chemistry, algebra, USB data port
This would be a good opportunity to remind students that this comic strip uses
science fiction to convey scientific concepts and issues. Remind the students that the
ability to discern fact from fiction is just important as learning the concepts presented in
the strip.
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A: Have students study the comic strip silently and carefully observe the
background to look for supporting information. (V)
B: Have students read through the questions and circle the number of each question
they feel they would be able to respond to.
Pair/Share.
C: Give each student about half a minute to explain to their partner what they think
is happening based on what they see and read. (A)
D: The pair discusses questions 1-5, then each student draws a box around the
number (or circled number) of each question they would be able to respond to.
E: Solicit students’ responses as to what is fiction and what is fact. Compile a list
and come to a consensus.
Answers for 1-5
1: He is learning phonics, how to read. He will also learn algebra and chemistry.
2: A USB memory stick, also called USB drive, thumb drive, portable drive,
removable storage.
3: (R-7) USB data port
4: If the timers on the equipment represent a 24 hour clock, then the session will
last for one hour, from 14:30:25 to 15:30:25. If the timers represent minutes,
seconds, and hundredths of a second, then the session will last for one minute. The
24 hour clock was the intended reading.
5: Each of the objects resembles a rat because Newton is seeing human data from a
rat’s point of view. Also, part of the humor of the drawing is the morphing of the
objects into rats. Students may have other opinions which could be equally valid.
A Newton and Copernicus Companion: Copyright August 2007, J.C. Olson.