Students will be able to analyze and interpret data from the surface features of the Sun (including photosphere, corona, sunspots, prominences, and solar flares) to predict how these features may affect Earth. 8.E.4B.6
Content Knowledge Support
- Read and compete interactive science workbook pages 202-207.
Discussion Topics
1. Check out this video. 🤑 In 2019, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that federal agencies allocated a combined total of nearly $350 million to activities related to space weather such as the Parker Solar Probe. 🤔Do you think this is money well spent? Explain why or why not using 3 or more specific details about your predictions of the Sun's effect on Earth with or without these programs using specific details from the content knowledge resources provided during this module. Article link
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2. Using statistical evidence explain which layer of the Sun (including photosphere, corona, sunspots, prominences, and solar flares) has the greatest impact either positive and/or negative on Earth?
3. What would Earth be like without the Sun? Explain using 3 or more specific details from this module's content knowledge resources.
3. What would Earth be like without the Sun? Explain using 3 or more specific details from this module's content knowledge resources.
Recommended Exercises
(Level 2) Application
Using evidence from this resource predict when will the next solar maximum occur? Using specific details from this module's content knowledge resources explain two ways this solar maximum could impact you and/or Earth. |
Additional Exercises & Extensions
(Level 1) Comprehension
- Complete The Nearest Star: The Sun SEPUP reading and analysis using this lab TEMPLATE.
- Complete the Surface Features of the Sun Quizlet set.
(Level 2) Application
- Using evidence from this resource predict when will the next solar maximum occur? Using specific details from this module's content knowledge resources explain two ways this solar maximum could impact you and/or Earth.
(Level 3) Analysis
- Complete the Sunspot Analysis Google Form.
- Complete the Sunspot Analysis activity using this assignment TEMPLATE.
(Level 4) Evaluation
- Using 75 words or more explain using specific details from the content knowledge resources from this module which layer of the Sun has the greatest negative impact on Earth.
- Compare old predicted sunspot data with current sunspot data using this assignment TEMPLATE. How close were their predictions?
- Complete the Features of the Sun interactive (flash required). Then pick your favorite feature of the Sun (including photosphere, corona, sunspots, prominence, solar flare, solar wind) and research it more in depth and present your findings. Explain how the feature you chose has a direct effect on Earth? Explain what Earth would be like without the specific feature of the Sun you chose?
- optional resource http://solarscience.msfc.nasa.gov/
(Level 5) Creation
- Complete the Coronal Mass Ejection Challenge (CME) by designing a solution to protect Earth from an approaching CME using this assignment TEMPLATE.
Lab Exploration
Additional Explorations
- Research and describe how solar activities can release energies and particles that can interact with living things and man-made objects.
Future Learning Connections (9-12)
English Language Learners
Module Review Resources
Vocabulary Practice
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