LEARN NC

K–12 teaching and learning · from the UNC School of Education

The expanding universe

http://btc.montana.edu/ceres/html/Universe/uni1.html#activity1

A lesson plan for Grades 9–12 Earth/Environmental Science

Provider: Burns Telecom Center

About this resource

Appropriate grades
9–12
Subjects
science (astronomy, space exploration)
Provider
Burns Telecom Center

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This activity is designed to help students gain a deeper understanding of cosmology. Students develop authentic models and gather evidence supporting the Big Bang theory. This lesson uses observation, interactive media, and scientific models.

By completing this activity, the learner will:

  • illustrate the expansion of the Universe with a model;
  • explain and provide examples of Cepheid variables and apply (redshift velocity) = (distance)*( Hubble constant); and
  • give supporting evidence for the Big Bang theory.

North Carolina Curriculum Alignment

Science (2005)

Grades 9–12 — Earth/Environmental Science

  • Goal 1: The learner will develop abilities necessary to do and understand scientific inquiry in the earth and environmental sciences.
    • Objective 1.02: Design and conduct scientific investigations to answer questions related to earth and environmental science.
      • Create testable hypotheses
      • Identify variables.
      • Use a control or comparison group when appropriate.
      • Select and use appropriate measurement tools.
      • Collect and record data.
      • Organize data into charts and graphs.
      • Analyze and interpret data.
      • Communicate findings.
    • Objective 1.05: Analyze reports of scientific investigations and environmental issues from an informed scientifically literate viewpoint including considerations of:
      • Appropriate sample.
      • Adequacy of experimental controls.
      • Replication of findings.
      • Alternative interpretations of the data.
  • Goal 6: The learner will acquire an understanding of the earth in the solar system and its position in the universe.
    • Objective 6.01: Analyze the theories of the formation of the universe and solar system.