Behind the Curve
Name:
1. Before starting the movie, answer this question: What is the goal of science?
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2. This documentary is about people who advocate for the Flat Earth theory. This theory suggests that the Earth is a flat circle with a
dome-shaped atmosphere covering it. The edges of the Earth are bordered by Antarctica; essentially an impassable ice wall. As you
watch, fill in examples of each of the following:
Obsession
The Flat Earth ideology being a central
part of their life
Conspiracy Theorist
A general distrust of scientific and
government institutions
Bias
Selective in evidence that is gathered and
believed.
Behind the Curve
Name:
3. There are two major experiments conducted in this documentary in an attempt to gather data to support the flat Earth hypothesis.
Describe the hypothesis, design, outcome, and conclusion of each.
Laser Gyroscope
Hypothesis
Experimental
Design
Outcome
Conclusion
Light Post
Behind the Curve
Name:
4. This diagram outlines the basic cycle that is the scientific method. Given how the two experiments were conducted and interpreted,
where are the people of the Flat Earth movement going wrong in their search for understanding?
5. Some of the scientists in the documentary are critical of the attitudes of Neil DeGrasse Tyson and others who openly mock people
who believe in the Flat Earth hypothesis and other, related ideas. How do you think an ambassador of science should engage with
someone who believes in a “non-scientific” idea, like a flat Earth, vaccines causing autism, or global climate change as a hoax?
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Behind the Curve
Name:
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