Instructional Video

Why Does Venus Spin Backwards?

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

Our planetary neighbor has some explaining to do! Scientists are mystified by the fact that Venus spins in the reverse direction of all other planets. A thoughtful video lesson explains different hypotheses as well as the science leading to these conclusions. The speculation begins in the 1960s, and new hypotheses develop as late as 2008.

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CCSS: Adaptable
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • Have learners create a graphic organizer for every hypothesis and the scientific support for each
  • Create a debate where teams justify each hypothesis to the other groups
Classroom Considerations
  • Expects some knowledge of magnetic fields and tides
  • Video is one part of a larger SciShow Space series
  • This video is hosted on YouTube
Pros
  • Uses humor to add interest to the lesson
  • Offers links to resources to continue researching the topic
Cons
  • None