Beyond Black Holes

Beyond Black Holes lesson plan

What’s at the center of a galaxy? A black hole! Look WAY beyond a black hole by creating a vivid galaxy and observation tube with Crayola Twistables.

  • 1.

    Discover space! Research the universe, including the Milky Way and other galaxies. Find out more about black holes and other interesting phenomena in space. You could also experiment with how gravity bends and focuses light with a magnifying glass.

  • 2.

    Create a galaxy. Cut out a large galaxy on posterboard with Crayola® Scissors. Draw and color six or seven concentric rings on both sides of your galaxy with Crayola Twistables. The firmer you press, the brighter your colors will be. Glue black yarn around each ring, separating the colors. Use a cotton swab and Crayola School Glue. Air-dry the glue.

  • 3.

    Draw and color stars on white construction paper. Cut them out and glue them on both sides of your galaxy.

  • 4.

    Design an observation tube. Glue on black construction paper to cover a recycled cardboard tube. Cut a strip of white paper with scissors. Color it and glue it around the tube.

  • 5.

    Slightly flatten the tube. In the center of the galaxy, trace around one end of the tube. Cut out the opening with scissors. Insert the tube through the hole. Punch a hole at the top of the galaxy. Tie yarn through the hole to form a hanger.

  • 6.

    Present an oral report to the class using your galaxy to talk about black holes and beyond.

Benefits

  • Students compare and contrast black holes to other parts of the universe such as supernovas, nebulas, stars, and comets.
  • Students research properties of a black hole and demonstrate how gravity can bend and focus light using a magnifying glass.
  • Students gather information about the galaxy people live in, the Milky Way.
  • Students construct an imagined replica of a black hole and observation tube to use when they present their findings orally to the class.

Adaptations

  • Use an array of photographs and diagrams to learn about parts of the universe. Students with special needs may need assistance to cut out the center hole and glue on the black yarn.
  • Older students research how Einstein’s theory of relativity relates to black holes. Investigate the black hole named after him, the Einstein Cross.
  • Research the history of the universe, gathering theories, folktales from various cultures, and facts about its origins.