On April 8th, 2024 there will be a rare and unique event in the lifetimes of many Ontario students, a total solar eclipse. Many more will experience a partial solar eclipse. Whether or not your students are in school on April 8th, consider planning special activities and learning as the day approaches.
This natural event is shared by millions of people across North America. Let’s take the opportunity to help our students understand how much we have in common with others. It’s a perfect time to get kids connected to the natural world.
Fun Facts about this Solar Eclipse
Very important!
Looking directly at the Sun, without appropriate protection, can lead to serious problems such as partial or complete loss of eyesight.
In Canada, the solar eclipse’s path of totality will pass through some cities and towns in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland, plunging them into darkness for a few minutes.
https://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/astronomy/eclipses/total-solar-eclipse.asp
Solar eclipses happen about every 18 months but they are not visible to everyone on earth.
During an eclipse the moon casts a shadow that is approximately 250 km wide on the Earth.
Curriculum Connections
Explaining the eclipse will generate excitement in many areas of the curriculum.
*We can study maps and learn more about places along the eclipse path.
*We can learn about space exploration and the upcoming Artemis mission to explore the moon.
*We can study the timing of the eclipse looking at both digital and analog clocks.
*We can write predictions about animal and plant behaviour during the eclipse. Will nocturnal animals awaken? Will flowers close their blooms?
*How will the horizon look? We can create a class mural, individual paintings or drawings.
*We can dramatize the eclipse by taking on the roles of sun, moon, earth, animals and plants.
Get more information on the eclipse:
Royal Astronomical Society of Canada
