Instructional Video

A Brief History of the Universe

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

No one was actually there to see the birth of the universe, but years of collaboration between physicists and mathematicians allow us to glimpse all but a fraction of a second of it. A narrated journey shows the phase changes early matter went through to transform subatomic particles into the stars and planets we see today.

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Instructional Ideas
  • Extend the lesson by studying large particle colliders and how they function
  • Incorporate an activity that illustrates quarks and other particles to provide additional information
Classroom Considerations
  • Learners should be familiar with subatomic particles, states of matter, and phase changes prior to viewing
  • This video is hosted on YouTube
Pros
  • The simulations that show how matter changed over time help pupils understand the extreme conditions present in the universe's early days
  • Discusses the formation of elements as atoms and bonding became possible, which adds a strong link to chemistry and the periodic table
Cons
  • None