How Big is Space? Science Exploration

A small-group or independent, mathematical exploration of the vastness of Space. This resource offers opportunity for learners to experience just how far away our satellites, moon, and other planets truly are. This exploration uses the information presented in the infographic “How Big is Space?” published by the BBC in 2014 and will require learners to reason with percents, rates, and multi-step word problems while comparing distances and planet sizes. Check out the interactive and infographic websites below:

BBC’s “How Big Is Space?” Interactive Website
BBC’s Alternate Infographic Website (contains the same information)

WHAT’S INCLUDED

This resource contains:
–> 2 pages of mathematical word problems applying information from the BBC infographic
–> An answer Key

STORY

As soon as I found this amazing website, I created an activity for students to work through in partners to apply what we were practicing in math. Starting in a rocket on the Earth, the site allows users to scroll away from the surface and up through the layers of the atmosphere and into Space. My students have an actual blast finding out how far away things in our solar system really are.

IMPLEMENTATION

This resource consists mainly of a worksheet that can help students navigate the plethora of facts within the infographic. Choose to frame this as an independent activity for learners who need an opportunity to dig deeper into the distance between objects in our Solar System or set up a partner exploration to solve these mathematical situations together. In any case, push learners to continue inquiring about Space and have discussions around what lies beyond our Troposphere.

POSSIBLE EXTENSIONS

There is always more research or exploration that can be done about the things scientists have discovered in our Solar System.

MATERIALS/PRE-REQS

Besides this resource, you may require:
–> Computers and internet access