SPIRIT CURRICULUM ALIGNED PROGRAMS

Below is a series of programs that can be used with the SPIRIT telescopes. The programs are curriculum linked and focus on the curriculum areas of Science, Maths and Digital Technologies utilising  the inquiry process.

There are links to general capabilities: literacy, numeracy, ICT capability, critical and creative thinking, and intercultural understanding. The cross-curriculum priority Aboriginal and Torres-Strait Islander histories and cultures is also addressed, particularly in the beginner module 2- Indigenous Astronomy.

These programs are designed to develop STEM skills in students through the use of professional grade telescopes; giving them an opportunity to practice modern astronomy.

The list below is by no means an exhaustive use of SPIRIT. There are numerous opportunities to use SPIRIT across the curriculum and if you would like support for a tailored educational program, please contact us.

Beginner Modules

Taking a photo with SPIRIT
This module walks teachers and students through how to use SPIRIT to take images. There is a focus on STEM skills through making critical decisions on their images and evaluating the final product.
Suitable for all ages.
Relevant worksheets:
Celestial Object – Stellarium Information
SPIRIT Image Evaluation Form
Investigation Planner

Intermediate Modules

Classifying Galaxies

This module looks at the classification of galaxies. It examines the Hubble Classification Scheme as well as other tools. Students will learn to identify galaxy structure and image galaxies using SPIRIT. There is a focus on Science as a Human Endeavour, using work from ICRAR’s own Luca Cortese to illustrate how scientific concepts are built upon as our knowledge base grows.
Suitable for year 7-10
Relevant worksheets:
Galaxy Sorting Activity
Galaxy Viewing Guide
Viewing Plan
SPIRIT Image Evaluation Form
Investigation Planner

Galaxy Evolution
This module looks at how galaxies can evolve from interactions or their environment. Students will image and examine galaxy interactions and clusters. The lesson sequence includes two Science inquiry cycles with a focus on recent Western Australian research and Science as a human endeavour. This learning program is also appropriate for ATAR Physics.
Suitable for year 7-12
Relevant worksheets:
Viewing Plan
SPIRIT Image Evaluation Form
Investigation Planner
SPIRIT Galaxy Cluster Investigation Planner

Lifecycle of a Star
This module looks at the lifecycle of stars based on their mass. It introduces students to the scientific vocabulary associated with stars as well as explains each part of a stars lifecycle, using QR codes. Students will have the opportunity to use SPIRIT to image some of these stages.
Suitable for year 7-12
Relevant worksheets:
Lifecycle of a star QR codes
Lifecycle of a star viewing guide

Advanced Modules

Jupiter’s Mass
This module walks teachers and students through calculating the mass of Jupiter using a SPIRIT image. It uses Kepler’s third law of planetary motion, trigonometry and the Pythagorean theorem. The lessons have a heavy maths and physics element.
Suitable for year 7-12
Relavant worksheets:
Jupiter’s Mass Workflow