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By using several balls of different sizes, youth can explore more about solar eclipses.
Why are people so excited about solar eclipses? What’s the big deal? How can the moon block the sun? The goal of the Michigan State University Extension Science Team is to improve science literacy across the state of Michigan. One way he supports growing interest in science is by offering ideas for engaging young people in exploring their world.
People come from all over the world to watch the solar eclipse. Scientists and researchers spend days, weeks, and even months preparing to observe and image a solar eclipse. The sun has existed for millions of years and will continue to exist for millions of years, but we have no idea what’s happening on its surface or how it affects life on Earth. Knowledge is limited. Since the inauguration of the Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) in February 2010, our knowledge has increased. SDO has a mission to observe and collect data about the Sun.
During a solar eclipse, sunlight is blocked, but the corona is visible. The corona is the outermost part of the sun’s atmosphere. The 2024 solar eclipse, which will occur in April, will occur close to solar maximum, the peak of a roughly 11-year cycle, increasing the likelihood that observers will see solar streamers or coronal mass ejections. This is when the plasma spreads beyond the normal area of the Sun in fascinating patterns.
How do solar eclipses occur? How can the moon block the sun? Which is bigger, the sun or the moon? Adults can improve science literacy in youth by helping them ask questions and find answers. By using several balls of different sizes, youth can explore more about solar eclipses.
Start by collecting golf balls or similar small balls, one for each youth. You will also need one baseball or other medium-sized ball and one beach ball or large ball. Can youth use golf balls to block the view of baseball? How? Give youth time to share ideas and experiment. Have them share how they were able to block a baseball with a golf ball. Did the youth have a different experience holding the golf ball close to his eyes versus holding it at arm’s length? This is one way he thinks a golf ball can block a baseball .
Next, place the baseball on the table at the end of the room. Have the youth stand on the other side of the table and watch baseball with one eye covered and a golf ball held near the other eye. If the child cannot see the baseball around the side of the golf ball, have him or her slowly extend his arm while looking at the baseball around the golf ball. When can they see the baseball? If they still can’t see the baseball, slowly move away from the baseball until they can see the edges around the golf ball. Then show them the beach ball and ask them how they should adjust what they did to block the larger ball. Give youth time to try things out and share what worked and what didn’t.
Youth can find more information and videos about solar eclipses at NASA’s Solar Eclipse Resources for Youth. What is a solar eclipse? (Grades 5-8). If you plan to observe a solar eclipse, please note that special eclipse viewing filters are required to prevent serious damage to your eyes.
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