Instructional Video

Does the Universe Have a Purpose? feat. Neil deGrasse Tyson

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

Why are we here? There are so many possible ways to answer the question, but which answers are based on empirical data? Pupils discover the many perspectives on this age-old brainteaser. The narrator explains the topic through the ideas found in philosophy, religion, and science and dives into how everyone bases their answers on personal motivations without scientific fact.

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Instructional Ideas
  • Use the thought-provoking video to spark a journaling exercise
Classroom Considerations
  • Plan time for the class to discuss the contents of the video
  • No prior knowledge is needed for the video
  • This video is hosted on YouTube
Pros
  • Animated sequences are funny and keep a heavy topic lighter
  • The narrator uses a variety of familiar situations to help younger physicists comprehend the differences in viewpoints based on facts and beliefs
Cons
  • None