Media

This resource was reviewed using the Curriki Review rubric and received an overall Curriki Review System rating of 3, as of 2009-07-29.

Component Ratings:

Technical Completeness: 3
Content Accuracy: 3
Appropriate Pedagogy: 3

Reviewer Comments:

This comprehensive semester-long unit meets astronomy and earth science standards for middle school students and includes integration with mathematics, history, and technology. Designed for the student with little to no prior astronomy instruction, each lesson is expertly scaffolded to allow for effective learning. This unit starts with an excellent scope and sequence, including a detailed timetable, clear goals, and alignment with the National Science Education Standards. Topics start with an exploration of history and the evolution of astronomical ideas, moves into our current understanding of the universe and solar system, explores some basics of motion, and ends with a study of Earth, the space program and the search for extraterrestrial life based on extraplanetary conditions. Learning activities and assessments are varied, and include presentations, demonstrations, student activities and projects. The entire unit shows thoughtful attention to details of student engagement, discussion starters, image sources, and more. All necessary images, student handouts, and assessments are included in a variety of formats. This high quality unit is ready to use in the classroom!