Does the very thing that is responsible for life on Earth also have a dark side? Space scientists differentiate between sunspots, solar flares, and CMEs in an enlightening activity. The lesson, one of several in a unit presented by NOVA, shows examples of each occurrence and how they affect Earth.

Concepts

the sun, solar wind, the solar system, coronal mass ejections, solar flares, magnetic fields, sunspots, the earth

Show More Show Less

Additional Tags

science

Show More Show Less

Instructional Ideas

• After the video is finished, share the additional information found in the teacher's guide with the class
• As a fun extension, have students review the space weather forecast, then create a short skit to deliver the forecast
  

Classroom Considerations

• Make sure pupils know what causes the different disturbances discussed in the video—it is confusing!
  

Pros

• Presents content in a very engaging manner
• Diagrams help explain each type of solar activity
  

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.6.2 SL.7.2 SL.9-10.2