This first observation assignment involves observing sunspots. Sunspots are dark spots on the suns surface. They are caused by the Sun's magnetic field going through the surface. These regions are cooler because the magnetic fields inhibit normal convective flow that heat the surface.
Sunspots tend to occur in pairs associated with North and South magnetic poles.
The pairs are often on opposite sides of the Sun's equator. Also, at the sunspot maximum the sunspots tend to appear further from the equator. Your assignment is to draw a circle representing the sun and sketch at least two groups of sunspots, one on each side of the equator. You can adjust the telescope a little as you need to. The Lab assistant will show you how to adjust the focus and position.