Basic Productivity Tools (BPT)

Lesson Idea Name: Star Scientist

Content Area: Science
Grade Level(s): 2nd Grade
Content Standard Addressed: S2E1. Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information about stars having
different sizes and brightness

Technology Standard Addressed: 4. Innovative Designer

Selected Technology Tool: Microsoft PowerPoint

URL(s) to support the lesson (if applicable): https://www.brainpop.com/science/space/lifecycleofstars/

Bloom’s Taxonomy Level(s):

☐ Remembering ☐ Understanding ☒ Applying ☐ Analyzing ☐ Evaluating ☐ Creating

Levels of Technology Integration (LoTi Level):

☐ Level 1: Awareness ☐ Level 2: Exploration ☐ Level 3: Infusion ☒ Level 4: Integration
☐ Level 5: Expansion ☐ Level 6: Refinement

Universal Design for Learning (UDL): For all students, the second tier of the Universal Design for Learning
(Action and Expression) could apply for this lesson. The students are given options outside of the traditional
ones of how they capture data for this project. Planning and strategy development is addressed when they
are deciding how to complete the project.

Lesson idea implementation: Students will be introduced to the topic of astronomy through a BrainPop
video. They will also play a game about identifying the different planets in our solar system through a
PowerPoint presentation. We will go into a discussion about the types of stars and their characteristics. After
students have learned about the different types of stars and their life cycles, they will begin a project.
Students will be given 2 days to identify and create a map of stars they see at their homes using photographs
or drawings. They will be given 1 day to summarize their findings and finalize their star maps. The students
will be given 1 day to present to the class.

The students will present their findings in a presentation using Microsoft PowerPoint. The lesson will be
concluded by reviewing all the students’ PowerPoints in class and comparing the results of the project.
Students will be assessed on criteria regarding the project including the ability to describe physical attributes
and construct viable arguments about the Sun as a star as well as other factors. Students will receive feedback
on a form. The final product of the project will be used to gauge student learning and address any
misconceptions.
Reflective Practice: I feel the activities presented in this lesson could impact student interest in science and
astronomy. The students have a personal connection to the lesson through observing the surroundings near
their homes. To extend the lesson, the students can research how geological location impacts what types of
stars and constellations you can see. Students could view the night sky using a telescope and report on how
their experience was impacted with the use of that tool. With the use of PowerPoint, this productivity tool
could be used with other content areas as well.

Spring 2018_SJB