Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Unit Checkpoint:

• Have you been reviewing your astronomy standards and notes nightly?

• Have you checked out the other things in "Things to Know"?

• Do you know the planned date for your astronomy test?

Today's Agenda:

I.    Quiz - You may review for a few minutes before you begin.  [YES - I will check ALL fill-in-the-blank myself so that you are not penalized for spelling errors.]

II.    Using the blue books, complete definitions about technology we use to study space.

        a.  Read pages 22 - 26.

        b.  Use the data table in the article to help you write a working definition to explain what each of the four featured technologies is and what it is designed to do.  Write these in general terms.  In other words, do not write specifically about Mars missions but your working definitions should be valid to describe these technologies for any mission.  (These are the last terms from the list you copied on Monday that need to be defined.)

III.  The moon will be the primary focus of our study next week.  

        a.  If you have not already viewed  BrianPOP "Moon," please do so as your introduction.  Be sure to take notes, and try the quiz at the end.  If you do not score a 90% or better, then fill in the gaps in your notes.

        b. The moon plays an important part in moving water around our planet.  View "Tides," and take notes.  Try the quiz.  Ninety percent or better is your goal.

        c.  We will learn about lunar eclipses as well.  View "Eclipse," take notes about the lunar eclipse, and fill in any gaps in your notebook if you did not score at least a 90%.

IV.  E-lab - GIZMO:  3D Eclipses

        a.  As usual, CAREFULLY follow the Exploration Guide.  (The link is an electronic version, but a paper version is available for your use during class.)

        b.  TAKE NOTES.  i) Record new information presented in the Exploration Guide.  ii)  If the EG asks a question, record the question in your notebook, and manipulate the Gizmo to find the answer for that question.

        c.  Next week I will ask you questions from the Exploration Guide.  You will be able to use your notebook to answer them, so please take your time, and be certain that you are thorough in your use of the Exploration Guide.  (Your Exploration Guide needs to be completed by Tuesday, February 9 Wednesday, February 10.  If you need a pass to the library to use during lunch or recess between now and then, please just ask!  I will be happy to give you one.)

        d.  AFTER you have turned in your answers to my Exploration Guide questions, you will answer the five questions under the Gizmo.  Do NOT do those before next Tuesday!!!   You need to wait until you see if your work on the EG was correct before you attempt those questions!