Faraway Worlds: Planets Beyond Our Solar System
What’s inside...
Learn the secrets of planet-hunters as they search for planets beyond our solar system. Is there more to a star than meets the eye? Take a trip to an alien world and encounter wobbling stars, frozen moons, and boiling oceans. Stunning illustrations and cutting-edge science make this book a first in the field. Includes a glossary and index.
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to live on a different planet in another solar system?
How do you think scientists discover planets that are so far away?
If you could design your own planet, what would it be like and why?
What do you think are the biggest challenges in exploring outer space?
How do you think learning about other planets helps us understand our own planet better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child's imagination by asking them to draw or describe their own planet, incorporating elements they learned from the book.
Use comparisons between Earth and other planets discussed in the book to foster deeper understanding and relatability.
Discuss the scientific methods mentioned in the book for discovering new planets, possibly leading to a small research project or experiment.
Encourage questions and admit when you don’t know the answer; consider looking up additional information together to explore new concepts.
Highlight the themes of exploration and innovation, discussing how these themes can be applied in everyday problem-solving and creative thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The book discusses the discovery and characteristics of exoplanets in a way that encourages curiosity about the universe and the scientific methods used for exploration.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this sense of curiosity to explore new subjects in school or new hobbies, learning the importance of discovery and inquiry in everyday life.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Scientific Inquiry
Explanation: Through the narrative of how astronomers detect and study planets beyond our solar system, children learn about the scientific method and the importance of observation and hypothesis testing.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to adopt a scientific approach to problem-solving and critical thinking, whether they're conducting simple experiments at school or making observations in their environment.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Challenge
Explanation: The book depicts the challenges astronomers face in studying objects so distant and different from our own planet, showcasing the resilience needed in science.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of persistence and resilience when faced with difficult tasks or when learning new and challenging concepts in their studies or personal lives.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for the Natural World
Explanation: By exploring planetary environments vastly different from Earth, the book fosters an appreciation for the complexity and beauty of the cosmos and our own planet.
Real-World Application: This can lead children to become more environmentally conscious and appreciative of the natural wonders of Earth, promoting a sense of responsibility towards taking care of our planet.
Example Lesson: Understanding Diversity
Explanation: The book introduces a range of planetary types, climates, and possibilities, illustrating the diversity that exists within our universe.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate diversity not only in the natural world but also among the people and cultures on Earth, understanding that differences are what make our world rich and interesting.