“Astronomy” End of Unit Reflection

Part 1

1.        In the past unit we learned that the earth’s and moon’s motions affect the tides and climate of earth.  The moon creates tides by the gravitation pull between the moon and the earth.   Earth’s rotation around the sun affects climate and creates the seasons.

2.       We learned that scientists use their knowledge of earth’s surface and atmosphere in search of extraterrestrial life.  Scientists know how earth supports life.  For example, oxygen, water, and reasonable temperatures are key things that are needed for us to survive.   Scientists look for these types of things when they study other planets to determine if they could possibly support life if any kind.    

3.       The International Space Station, space probes, and satellites are all excellent resources for space study.  In the ISS astronauts grow plants, do different types of tests and experiments to learn how gravity affects.  Satellites like the Hubble telescope send back pictures of planets, stars, and other galaxies that are better quality than scientists previously had. 

Part 2

1.       What effects are caused by the motions of earth and the moon?

Seasons, tides, day and night, eclipses, weather, and climate

2.       owH How has the development of technology and space flight helped astronomers learn more about other parts of the solar system and the structure of the universe?

The development of new technologies has helped astronomers because now they have stronger more effective telescopes to look into outer space.  With these new telescopes, astronomers have more accurate data and images to study our solar system and the structure of the universe.

3.       How are the conditions in space different from those on Earth?  How has space technology benefited modern society?

First off, in space there is no weather, oxygen, water or gravity.  The temperatures in space are very extreme.  To deal with these harsh conditions, astronauts must wear special space suits.  Space technology has benefited many different areas of modern society.  Examples include freeze dried food, fire resistant clothing, Velcro, smoke detectors, wireless tools, barcodes, Tang, and lasers.

Reflection

I enjoyed this unit VERY much.  It was one of my favorite units.  I think it is important to learn space because it is just amazing.  I learned that because of the space program we have more technology in our homes today than when my parents were kids like microwave ovens.  I really liked the videos we saw about the Hubble telescope and the ISS.  I also loved the planet and brochure projects.  What I didn’t like was tides since I found it confusing and didn’t really understand them.   Please teach tides in more detail.  Maybe a lab or experiment on tides would have helped me.