In this activity, participants will learn about how gigantic clouds of gas and dust in space, called nebulas, are formed. They'll create their own colorful model nebula using paint and a spinner. Because of the unique quantities and locations of the materials and the forces that spread them out, each model nebula will be unique—just like each real nebula! Both English and Spanish activity resources are included. Educators should begin with the file named: Nebula Spin Art - Lesson Plan - START HERE.
Lesson Plans for Exploring the Universe: Nebula Spin Art | Verizon Innovative Learning
Lesson
Exploring the Universe: Nebula Spin Art
Grade Level
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Estimated length
1 to 2 class periods
Overview tab selected 1 of 3
Nebula Spin Art - Activity Training Video
Objectives
- A nebula is a large cloud of gas and dust in space that can be created by a dying star.
- Nebulas are responsible for mixing up and spreading out elements in space.
- NASA scientists can assign colors in nebula images to represent different elements and other characteristics we can’t see with our eyes.
Supplies Required
- Neon tempera paints
- Small squeeze bottles (1 for each color)
- Black construction paper circles
- OXO Good Grips salad spinner
- Gel pens
- Optional: paper towels, old newsprint, or brown paper
App Required
Visceral Science: Evolution of Stars
Send your students to outer space with Visceral Science using the formation of stars and planets to immerse them in the scientific concepts of force and motion, energy conservation, and thermonuclear reactions. Experience supernovae, create black holes and neutron stars, collapse red giants, launch planets and play with their orbits, and do all of this in collaboration with other online players. Working in teams, your students will learn essential astronomy and physics lessons in a fully immersive environment, sparking more curiosity and engagement than through traditional instruction. The multiplayer experience is designed for virtual reality headsets - both PC VR and standalone VR - as well as for mobile devices and browsers. With VR players present as avatars and mobile/web players present as drones, the collaboration scenarios for your class are nearly limitless. The application requires the creation of an account on Abelana.
