Focussing on physics, optics, and light, this guide is a great companion to the GEMS guide Color Analyzers. A background section is included. Activities include observing and recording changes in the sky and creating models to explain observations. This interdisciplinary unit also explores world cultures through myths about the rising and setting of the sun. In this unit, students recreate Galileo's historic telescopic observations of Jupiter's moons.
Students also work in teams to create a settlement on one of the moons of Jupiter.
Background information and a box of 23 color slides is provided. In 4 sessions, students investigate and analyze the properties of the strange green substance, Oobleck, said to come from another planet. A large poster illustrating the Mars Viking mission is included. The Oobleck unit provides students with authentic insight into the real work of scientists. It also includes useful articles on student learning, teaching resources, and incorporating astronomy into the curriculum.