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Learning through Cultural Connections: The Northern Lights Website

Two students in a classroom setting showing their models of Earth's magnetic field.
Cultural Connections: The Northern Lights Homepage
Geophysical Institute, Universtity of Alaska Fairbanks
Levels
  • Introductory (K-5)
  • Intermediate (6-8)
Material Type
  • Activity/Hands-on
  • Educator/Facilitator Guide
  • Unit (of Study)
  • Interactive/Game/Simulation
Heliophysics Big Ideas
  • Big Idea 3.2 – Energy from the Sun is created in the core…
NGSS
  • ESS2 - Earth's Systems
  • PS3 - Energy
Heliophysics Topics
  • Aurora
  • Magnetosphere
  • Sun
  • Space Weather
  • Sunspot
  • Magnetic Reconnection
  • Magnetotail
  • Electromagnetism
  • Solar Cycle
  • Solar System
  • Solar Wind
  • Energy
  • Geomagnetic Storm
  • Coronal Mass Ejection
  • Magnetic Field
  • Solar Flare
Heliophysics Missions
  • STEREO A & B
  • Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO)
  • Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO)
Material Cost per Learner 1 cent – $1
Language English

An elementary/middle-school STEM unit addressing the aurora through the Iñupiat cultural lens. This unit targets lifelong learners through the development of informal educational products based on the topic of the aurora. Products currently in development include The Northern Lights video in two formats [for flat screen and planetarium viewing], a set of museum exhibit features, and learning kits for students in grades 4-8. All products showcase Inupiat culture and language. Learning kits include multimedia, interactive games, and reusable classroom supplies. The three-year Geophysical Institute project was funded by the U.S. Department of Education as an Alaska Native Education Program award.

https://culturalconnections.gi.alaska.edu/