Stars, Galaxies and the Universe, Oh My! (Shape and size of the Universe)

This episode spurs discussion of the different shapes of galaxies, how many stars there are, and how far away from us stars are. The take home message is that there are about as many stars in the universe as grains of sand on the Earth's beaches. Students are guided through some fundamental geometry activities to demonstrate how astronomers calculate the vast distances of space.

Key Concepts for Student Learning

Teacher resources & Lesson Ideas

Student Misconceptions

Student Prior Knowledge

Assessment Strategies

Standards

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