Solar System Project
There are two main goals for this project. One goal is that you will learn some very detailed information about a certain object in the solar system. Another goal is that you will be able to teach your peers about that object. In essence you are being asked to become an expert on your assigned object. After sufficient time for research has been given, you will be asked to make a presentation of your findings to the class. You will also turn in a written or typed report on the subject. Everyone will be required to turn in a written report individually. The presentation to the class may be done as a group. Within your group you should each “specialize” in one area concerning your planet or moon.
Your report and presentation will be graded according to a rubric.
You must cite in your written report at least four (possibly more) sources of information which may include: your text, internet sites, magazines, newspapers, or books – but not encyclopedias or similar reference works. The sources will be given in a list of cited works at the end of your report. You will be given class time to research your topic in the library. However, you should feel free to do further research outside of class time either at school in the library, at home on the internet, or at a public library or UT’s library. Remember to note bibliographical information as you collect materials from the various sources.
The following are suggested areas on which to focus. If you are working alone on a topic you may wish to use this as an outline. If you are working with other persons you may wish to divide your topic up along these lines somehow.
I.
Physical Properties
Composition, size, surface features, interior features, atmosphere,
temperature, surface gravity, etc. are all things you should research.
Basically you need to find out what this object is like and relate it in a
manner that is easy to comprehend. One way to do this would be to describe
what it would be like if a person went there and contrast with our experiences
here on Earth. For example what is the temperature and weather like? How much
would a person weigh?
II.
Motion Properties
Orbital size, orbital eccentricity, orbital period, perihelion and aphelion,
rotation rate and orientation, long term changes, etc. are all things you
should research. Again you should relate this information in a way that is
easy to comprehend. Again I would recommend trying to contrast it with our
existence here on Earth. For example you could describe how a “day” or “year”
would pass on this object. Would there be seasons there? How would the
celestial sphere appear?
III.
Something Interesting!
The above two points should be considered mandatory. In this section of your
report I want you to find something about your subject that really interests
you. This could include (among other things): theories of the origin of the
object, details about moons and/or rings, details about the exploration of this
object by spacecraft – past, present, and/or future (planned), details about
observing this object from Earth by telescope or other means – past, present,
and/or future (planned), or anything else you find interesting (provided you
can find sources of information).
q Make the most of your textbook. Read the chapter for your subject! Check out the web links found at www.prenhall.com/chaisson and also the animations found on the book’s CD-ROM.
q Don’t waste time on the internet or in the library finding very basic information. Your textbook is an excellent source of basic information like size, mass, orbit, physical characteristics, and so on.
q Do use the internet and library to find information beyond the scope of the book – things like very specific details about one particular aspect of your topic or late breaking news about your topic or the very latest and most recent data for your topic.
q Look for details. In order to receive a good grade your report must have specific and up-to-date information cited from sources other than your book.
q Look for audiovisual aids – overhead transparencies, posters, video clips, slides, films, etc. I can help you to locate VCR’s, projectors, set up computers, etc. Remember that there are animations and web sites included with the text – these would be fine if they are worthwhile. Power point presentations can be arranged and again I can help if you are interested.
q Find a way to make your topic interesting and fun. Get the class to participate. Create a game. Create a scale model. Use your imagination. I can tell you from experience that it will be much more enjoyable and satisfying for you as a presenter if your audience is interested and engaged in your presentation.
q Be organized and well prepared. Practice your presentation. Notes or note cards are fine though you should avoid simply reading a paper.