Science.2.9.B
The student is expected to
observe objects in the sky using tools such as a telescope and compare how objects in the sky are more visible and can appear different with a tool than with an unaided eye.
Knowledge and Skills Statement
Earth and space. The student knows that there are recognizable patterns in the natural world and among objects in the sky.
Demonstrated Proficiency
Take students outside on a day when the Moon is clearly visible in the sky. Ask students to draw a picture of the Moon based on what they see with the unaided eye. Then have students look at the Moon through a telescope or pair of binoculars (with a magnification of at least 7). Ask the students to draw the Moon as they see it through the telescope or binoculars. Safety note: Caution students to only look at the Moon, NOT the Sun unless you have a solar filter for binoculars or telescope.
Ask students to write one to two sentences that describe how the Moon looks similar and how it looks different in the two images they drew. Student descriptions should indicate that the Moon is glowing in both instances and that the overall color is similar. Students should notice that the image of the Moon viewed through the telescope or binoculars looks bigger and that variations in the Moon's surface, such a craters, can be seen.
Supporting Information
Research
Barclay, Charles. “Back to Basics: Naked-eye Astronomical Observation.” Physics Education 38, no. 5 (2003) 423–28. https://doi.org/10.1088/0031-9120/38/5/307.
Summary: Students need to observe objects in the sky with their unaided eyes and compare that experience to observations made using tools like telescopes, binoculars, or computer programs. Students should recognize the limitations of using the naked eye. Even small telescopes or binoculars allow students to see details of the moon and planets that cannot be seen with only their eyes.