Star Brightness and Size
aligned to Ngss 4-ess3-1
Learning Objective
I can compare the brightness and size of different stars.
Lesson Flow
Watch Video
Glow On: Crash Course Kids #20.2
Crash Course Kids
Guided Notes
Key concepts students will learn:
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Stars create energy in their core through a process called nuclear fusion, where hydrogen molecules smash together to create helium.
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Luminosity is a star's true brightness, measuring how much energy it shines from its surface, while apparent brightness is how bright a star appears from Earth.
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A star's apparent brightness depends on its distance from Earth, not just its size or power, because closer stars appear brighter.
Practice
5 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
“Explain how both the size and distance of a star affect how bright it appears to us on Earth. Give an example using the Sun and Betelgeuse.”
Teacher Guide
Get the complete package:
- Answer keys for all questions
- Differentiation strategies
- Extension activities
- Printable student handouts
