On Monday, August 21, North America will experience a total solar eclipse – the first solar eclipse visible from the U.S. since 1979! The “path of totality” (the path that the shadow of the moon makes along the Earth) will pass through 14 states from Oregon to South Carolina. Observers outside of the path will see a partial solar eclipse.
While some southern schools within the path of totality are closing early due to safety concerns, others are using it as a learning opportunity for students. Some schools in Georgia are giving students protective glasses and extending the school day to allow them to observe the eclipse under careful supervision (USNews.com).
Rachel Connolly, the director of STEM education at WBGH in Boston, is creating a list of resources for teachers wishing to incorporate the solar eclipse into their lesson plans.
It’s not always easy to get students excited about learning, but the solar eclipse is a unique opportunity to spice up a lesson in science! If you want to observe the eclipse with your students, be sure to use protective eyewear and follow these special safety instructions from NASA.