The Big Bang & Telescopes | New Visions for Public Schools

Physics Unit 6

The Big Bang & Telescopes

Developed by New Visions for NYSSLS

3 weeks

Unit Overview

How has the matter in the Universe changed over time, and how do we know? Why did the Hubble Telescope need glasses?

Students analyze spectra from stars, galaxies, and empty space to identify puzzling patterns regarding how matter in the Universe changes over time. Working in small groups, they research these questions to obtain, evaluate, and communicate findings. The class then reaches consensus that the evidence points to the Big Bang.

In the second half of this unit, students will focus on optics. They will investigate how mirrors and lenses can be used to manipulate light and how they can use these properties to design solutions to real world problems.

Performance Expectations:

HS-ESS1-2, HS-PS4-6 (NYSSLS)

Coming Soon!

We are putting the finishing touches on this unit! Fully aligned adapted materials—crafted specifically for NYCPS and NY State standards—will be ready in late-September. Make sure you’ve registered for an account, and we’ll email you when the links are live.

Lesson Set 1: how did the universe come into existence

This lesson was developed by OpenSciEd

Lesson 6

How has the matter in the Universe changed over time?

Lesson Set 2: why did the Hubble Telescope need glasses?

This lesson was developed by New Visions for NYSSLS

Lesson 1

Why didn’t the Hubble Telescope initially work?

Lesson 2

How can we use mirrors and lenses to manipulate what we see?

Lesson 3

How does the material affect what happens to the light?

Lesson 4

How do we use lenses and mirrors to create images?

Lesson 5

How was Hubble’s vision fixed?