Objective
By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to understand the science behind the northern lights phenomenon and explain the factors that contribute to its occurrence.
Materials and Prep
- Internet access
- Pen and paper
- Optional: Access to a library or books on Earth Science
No prior knowledge is required for this lesson.
Activities
Research: Instruct the student to conduct online research about the northern lights. They should explore the causes, formation, and appearance of this natural phenomenon. Encourage them to take notes and write down any questions or interesting facts they come across.
Written Reflection: Ask the student to write a short reflection on what they have learned from their research. They should include a description of the science behind the northern lights and any factors that contribute to its occurrence. Encourage them to use their own words and be creative in their writing.
Discussion: Engage in a discussion with the student about their reflection. Ask them to share their thoughts, questions, and any new insights they gained. Encourage critical thinking and deeper exploration of the topic.
Twelfth Grade Talking Points
- "The northern lights, also known as aurora borealis, are a natural light display that occurs in the polar regions."
- "They are caused by the interaction between the Earth's magnetic field and charged particles from the sun."
- "Solar winds, composed of charged particles, are released from the sun and travel towards the Earth."
- "When these charged particles reach the Earth's atmosphere, they collide with atoms and molecules, causing them to emit light."
- "Different gases in the atmosphere produce different colors of light, resulting in the vibrant and colorful displays of the northern lights."
- "The intensity and visibility of the northern lights depend on various factors, including solar activity, the Earth's magnetic field strength, and the observer's location."
- "The best places to witness the northern lights are near the Earth's magnetic poles, such as Alaska, Canada, and Scandinavia."
- "Scientists study the northern lights to better understand the Earth's magnetosphere and the effects of solar activity on our planet."