FRAME THE LESSON
Student Expectations Bundled in Lesson
Noun=Underline
Verb=Italicize
8.8 (A) describe components of the
universe, including stars, nebulae, and
galaxies, and use models such as the
Herztsprung-Russell diagram for
classification
8.8 (D) model and describe how light years
are used to measure distances and sizes in
the universe
8.8 (E) Research how scientific data are
used as evidence to develop scientific
theories to describe the origin of the
universe.
TEACHER: Flanigan
CLASS: Science
LESSON DATE: 2/8– 2/12
Teaching Points & Activities
Engage:
Explain:
Explore:
Elaborate:
Evaluate:
Resources/Materials:
8.8 A and 8.8 E
Planet Collision Video from Discovery Education
The Big Bang Activity. Place star stickers on a balloon and blow up to show the expansion of the
galaxies. Explain that the expansion of the galaxies supports the big bang theory. Also discuss the red
shift of galaxies.
Components of the Universe Comparison Matrix. Complete using textbook and additional resources if
needed
Asteroids, Meteors, and Comets information sheet
Types of Galaxies Foldable – Use information in textbook
Briefly discuss Edwin Hubble and his contributions to science
Use textbook to analyze HR diagram
Read about the big bang theory in textbook.
Find a partner who does not sit at your table and explain the Big Bang Theory to them.
The Big Bang Video from Discovery Education
HR Diagram Worksheet
Quick Write – See critical writing prompt
8.8 D
Measuring the Universe Video
How Long is a Light Year Worksheet
PBS Time Travel Activity http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/education/activities/2612_time.html
Balloons
Star stickers
Asteroids
information
sheet
Light year
worksheet
Resources
from PBS
website
Objective/Key Understanding:


Compare and contrast planets,
asteroids, meteors and comets
focusing on composition, light
production, orbit patterns and size.
Calculate the time to travel to near
and distant destinations and
construct a time scale model of the
universe by using time travel
distances.
Closing Product/ Question/ Informal Assessment:


Create a graphic organizer to compare
and contrast components of the
universe.
Asses understanding of the Big Bang
theory and whether or not they
personal agree.
Stop & Check for Understanding—High Level Questions
Why do we measure distances in space using light years?
Why is a light year a measure of distance and not time?
Critical Writing Prompt:
Do you agree with the Big
Bang Theory?
Why or why not?
Small Group Purposeful Talk Question Stems:
List evidence that supports the big bang theory.
What are some components of our universe?
Rigor & Relevance: (Real World Connection)
PBS Time Travel Activity
Vocabulary:
Elliptical, Irregular, Spiral, Asteroids, Comets, Galaxies, Meteor, Nebulae,
Planets, Stars, Universe