Galaxies
Window on the Universe Series
What’s inside...
Describes the Milky Way and other galaxies and discusses such topics as why the sky is dark at night, the 'Big Bang' theory, the future of the universe, and the search for intelligent life. Includes an activity on the most distant visible objects in the sky. Galaxies and other astronomical phenomena, such as quasars and black holes, are described and explained, in a scientific guide that includes realistic full-color artwork and a glossary of scientific terms.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-13
Length
31 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to live in a different galaxy?
Can you name any galaxies we learned about in the book and something interesting about them?
How do galaxies form and change over time?
Why do you think studying galaxies is important for scientists?
If you could ask an astronaut a question about galaxies, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing what fascinates you about space and galaxies to spark your child's interest.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite galaxy from the book and describe what they imagine life there might be like.
Use simple analogies to explain complex concepts about galaxies, such as comparing a galaxy's rotation to a merry-go-round.
Let your child ask questions freely, and find the answers together, enhancing the learning experience with mutual curiosity.
Create a 'galaxy night' where you and your child look at stars and try to identify constellations, connecting real-life observations with the book content.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity in Learning
Explanation: Through the exploration of different galaxies, the book fosters a sense of curiosity about the universe and the science behind it.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to ask questions and seek answers about the world around them, enhancing their knowledge and understanding in day-to-day life.
Example Lesson: Understanding Diversity
Explanation: The book introduces various types of galaxies, highlighting the diversity across the universe.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to appreciate diversity in their own environment, understanding that differences bring richness, just like each unique galaxy in the cosmos.
Example Lesson: Patience and Observation
Explanation: Studying galaxies requires careful observation and patience, as portrayed in the detailed descriptions present in the book.
Real-World Application: This can be translated into a child’s life by teaching them the importance of patience and attention to detail in their studies and personal interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of Scientific Inquiry
Explanation: The book demonstrates how scientists use research and experimentation to learn about galaxies.
Real-World Application: Children can apply the scientific methods of inquiry and experimentation to explore and understand phenomena in their own world.
Example Lesson: Inspiration and Aspiration
Explanation: The vast and mysterious qualities of galaxies can inspire children to dream big and aspire to contribute to world knowledge.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, aiming to make groundbreaking discoveries.