SHS3 Physics · Semester 1 Week 5: Basic Physics

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 3.1.1.LI.1 - Explain the universe and its composition as applied to astronomy and cosmology.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Define the universe, astronomy, and cosmology in their own words and distinguish between the three terms.
Describe the major components of the universe, including galaxies, stars, planets, nebulae, dark matter, and dark energy, with at least one characteristic of each.
Explain the scale of the universe using powers of ten or comparisons (e.g., distance from Earth to the Sun, size of the Milky Way).
Outline the key evidence supporting the Big Bang theory, including cosmic microwave background radiation and redshift.
Discuss the contributions of at least three individuals from diverse backgrounds (including women and persons with disabilities) to the development of space science.

This lesson builds directly on Weeks 3 and 4, where learners studied Newton’s law of universal gravitation and satellite motion. The gravitational ideas they already know will now be applied to understand how planets orbit stars and how galaxies hold together.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Mechanics and Matter (Strand 1)
Sub-strand: Basic Physics (1.1)
Content standard: 3.1.1.CS.3 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the basics of space science. 3.1.1.LO.3 Use the knowledge in space science to explain the world beyond the earth.
Indicator: 3.1.1.LI.1 - Explain the universe and its composition as applied to astronomy and cosmology.
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 5 (Week 5 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 153

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Experiential learning:
- Learners watch a documentary or movie that identifies and describes key technological advances in space exploration and research.
- Investigate and discuss the historical and contemporary contributions of individuals, including women and individuals with disabilities, to the development of space science.
Assessment (3.1.1.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 1 Recall; Level 2 Skills of conceptual understanding.
Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Audio-visuals
- PhET interactive
- Internet simulations
- Projectors
- laptop/computer
- YouTube
- Field visit
- Reference book