Priority topics
Access to education and literacy, Climate change, Science and research
Target groups
7th grade, Cycle 3, Cycle 4, Groups of children (ages 6 to 12)
Vehicular languages
allemand, anglais, français, luxembourgeois
Website
polarluxembourg.luObjectives
OA1: Students can explain solar storms and their effects on Earth.
OA2: Learners can briefly explain the Earth's magnetic field.
OA3: Students can explain how solar particles enter Earth's atmosphere.
OA4: Students can begin to explain why the Northern Lights come in different colors.
(OA= learning objective)
Program
This workshop explains in five steps how the Northern Lights are formed.
First, we will explain (1) why the Sun and solar storms are important for the formation of the Northern Lights. Next, we will take an interactive look (2) at the Earth's magnetic field. Once we have understood this, we will see (3) how the magnetic field and solar storms are related. We will use colours to illustrate why the Northern Lights are only visible at the poles. Finally, we will see (4/5) why the Northern Lights have different colours.
This workshop includes numerous small experiments in which pupils can actively participate.
Methodological approaches
-Globe analysis
-Handling a magnet
-Colour game (1): Reconstruction of solar particles descending into the Earth's atmosphere
-Colour game (2): creating colours using different lamps and bulbs.
Remarks
Ideal for learners of 10–15 years old (can be adapted for older students)
It is important to provide a plastic cover to protect the tables/floor.
Children may get a little paint on them, so please warn them in advance.
Polar.lu charges €60 for a 1-hour workshop, plus the cost of materials (to be determined)