Exploring the Cosmos: Grade 7 Students Experience Astronomy Up Close
A traveling planetarium recently visited Graland’s campus, giving the seventh-grade students a unique opportunity to experience astronomy firsthand during their science period with Mr. Steve Collins. The visit complemented the students' Earth Science curriculum, where they had already explored key concepts like the Nebular Theory. This theory, which explains how our solar system and planet formed, was introduced at the start of their geology unit. Prior to their planetarium visit, Mr. Collins covered topics like the Big Bang, the formation of the first nebulae and stars, the creation of the 92 elements on the periodic table, and how gravity shaped our corner of the Milky Way galaxy. The planetarium experience provided a dynamic and interactive way for students to visualize these complex concepts and see them in action, deepening their understanding of space and planetary science.
Throughout the year, Mr. Collins also brings science to life with his "Stuff to Share" segment, where he highlights current space exploration discoveries, like the groundbreaking work of the James Webb and Spitzer Space Telescopes, the launch of NASA’s Europa Clipper mission to Jupiter, and the fascinating discovery of the exoplanet WASP-107b, where it rains sand. These discussions spark the students' curiosity, especially about space science, and enrich their understanding of how modern scientists are exploring the universe and making new discoveries. Stay curious, Grade 7 scientists!
A big thank you to St. Mary's Academy for sharing their planetarium with other Denver-area schools so our students could have this enriching experience.
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
