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In just days, many people across the United States will be witnessing (but not directly 👀) what is being described as the solar eclipse of a lifetime.
According to NASA, the path of the eclipse enters the U.S. in Texas, and travels through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. And while it's sure to be a stunning visual, it's also a great educational opportunity for teachers and students.
Jeremy from Screencastify created this quick tip for using video to maximize the educational experience of this once in a lifetime event! Among the ideas are:
- 📝 Make a visual guide for the pinhole camera instructions
- 😎 Create a submit assignment for for the instructions above
- 🌓 Let them share interesting facts that they discover!
Check out the video below!
Want to take Jeremy's lesson a bit further and deepen understanding? Pair it with one of these ideas:
Animated explainer videos:
- Have students create short animated explainer videos using Screencastify's drawing tools. These videos can explain the different phases of the eclipse (partial, total, annular) and how the moon's shadow interacts with the Earth.
Interview with a "Space Expert":
- Divide the class into interviewers and a "space expert" (both students decide the questions researches beforehand). Students can use Screencastify to record the interview, with the "expert" explaining the science behind solar eclipses and answering questions from the interviewer
Mythbusters - dispelling eclipse misconceptions:
- Have students research common myths and misconceptions about solar eclipses. They can then create short screencast videos debunking these myths and explaining the scientific facts.
Historical exploration - eclipses throughout time:
- Dive into the history of solar eclipses! Students can research how different cultures viewed and interpreted eclipses. Then, have them create video presentations using Screencastify with visuals, narration, and even reenactments.
Global collaboration video pals project:
- Partner with another classroom across the country or globe located in the eclipse's path. Students can exchange short video messages using Screencastify before and after the eclipse, sharing their experiences and observations.
Bonus idea:
- Use Screencastify Edit to create a class-wide collaborative video documentary about the solar eclipse. Students can contribute different segments using Screencastify record, covering topics like the science, history, safety measures, and even creative writing pieces inspired by the eclipse.
Install Screencastify today!
Want to easily roll out new initiatives now? Install the Screencastify Chrome extension free to begin recording in seconds!
