Zero Gravity or Micro Gravity

In a lesson this past week, I planted a 'seed' in my students mind by exploring their understanding of gravity. Of course, they are very bright and all know what gravity is experientially. I also asked them, based on their understanding of gravity (not what it really is) if there is such as thing as zero gravity. The answer was a resounding yes.

So now then why does some gravity exist on the moon, I ask. I then went on to introduce a new term related to gravity and have them think of environments of micro gravity.

I'll finish this lesson later in the curriculum, but for now their wheels are turning....

Why America Needs to Explore Space

There was a great but yet alarming article in this past Sunday's Parade section of the newspaper. One of the quotes that got my attention was:

"Science and technology are the greatest engines of economic growth the world has ever seen. Without regenerating homegrown interest in these fields, the comfortable lifestyle to which Americans have become accustomed will draw to a rapid close."

You can read the entire article here.

Slide Show of my trip to Italy this summer