Since being re-classified as a “dwarf planet,” Pluto has sparked lively discussions around the world. Now, teachers and students can explore this controversial topic in the classroom with the latest installment of the Sally Ride Science™ blog at http://sallyridescience.com. The new blog theme, “Should Pluto Be a Planet?” runs through the end of September, with new postings Mondays and Thursdays.
The “Should Pluto Be a Planet?” blog provides teachers with an engaging way to introduce students to the assorted planets, moons, asteroids and Kuiper belt objects in our solar system. It focuses on Pluto and other dwarf planets such as Ceres, the largest asteroid, and Eris, a Kuiper belt object. (The Kuiper Belt is a region of frozen objects beyond Neptune).
This month’s theme provides an opportunity to discuss the definition of a planet and why Pluto is no longer classified that way. Teachers can share fun facts with students such as how Pluto got its name and demonstrate the idea that exciting new discoveries are being made in science every day.
The first blog entry is authored by Jim Brown. In his 30 years in public education, Brown has taught kindergarten through ninth grade, specializing in designing and implementing science curricula. Currently, Brown is bringing his expertise to Sally Ride Science, guiding new programs, hands-on workshops and teacher materials.
Subsequent postings to the “Pluto” blog will be authored by Dr. Karen Flammer, a space physicist at the University of California, San Diego, and one of the founders of Sally Ride Science. In the blog, she’ll share some interesting facts about Pluto, Ceres and Eris, and about the New Horizons mission that will reach Pluto in 2015.
About the Sally Ride Science Blog
The Sally Ride Science blog features a series of science-themed entries to help teachers illustrate real world applications of science concepts and spark lively classroom discussions. Designed for grades four through eight, the blog includes ideas to engage students as they explore the exciting world of science.
About Sally Ride Science
Sally Ride Science is an innovative science content company dedicated to supporting girls’ and boys’ interests in science, math and technology. Our programs include Sally Ride Science Festivals, educator institutes, after-school programs, and Classroom Sets to supplement science instruction. For more information, call 1-800-561-5161.