Cosmology
Introduction

Cosmology is the story of the universe. According to the Green Studies Curriculum, cosmology is “the study of the origin, processes, structure, and/or dynamics of the universe.”

For the purposes of these activities, it is the science-based story of the universe. Personal cosmologies may differ according to culture and background and providing a basis for much discussion, they are not the definitions we use.

 

Objectives

Green (Earth Literacy Goals)

  1. Students will understand the new universe story.

  2. Students will explore their personal cosmology.

  3. Students will view a simple interpretation of the universe story.

  4. Students will consider how their cosmology influences their thoughts.

 

ESL

  1. Students will compare children’s story to the adult.

  2. Students will understand the need of reflective thought to discourse

  3. Students will improve note taking skills

  4. Students will improve aural skills.

  5. Students will practice group discussion skills.

 

Materials

PowerPoint Presentation “The Everything Seed: A Story of Beginnings” by Joy Toyer

 

Time

1- 1.5 hours

 

Steps/procedures

Some general understanding of the term cosmology is necessary. So begin with the simple definition. There might be some students who wish to discuss it from a religious perspective, and be prepared to focus on the science behind the ideas.

Activity 1

Show the PowerPoint presentation “The Everything Seed: A Story of Beginnings” by Joy Toyer

The following questions will direct the initial discussion

  1. What was your initial reaction?

  2. What was the point of the presentation?

  3. What does this tell us about our place in the universe?

If you have already shown the “Powers of Ten Video” then ask these questions:

  1. What did you notice was thematically the same?

  2. How which do you prefer and why?

  3. What is the message in relationship cosmology in both?

  4. What point is the human situated in the two?

  5. Would you show these to your children?

Activity 2

Students will write a short reaction to the presentation and will enter it into their journals or turn it in at the professor’s discretion.

 

Resources:

Books

 

Videos