Interactive Models

Observing the Sun During a Total Solar Eclipse

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Overview

This interactive takes students through the basic mechanics of a solar eclipse, using a NASA Space Place Eclipse Poster, including an optional eclipse art activity.

Solar Eclipse Infographic - credit: NASA Space Place

Materials Required

Resources Needed Per Student:

Resources Needed Per Group:

  • Computer/Tablet
  • Internet Access
  • Link to the "Observing the Sun During a Total Solar Eclipse" Interactive Slide Deck - Link

Directions

Remember to never look directly at the Sun without proper safety equipment.

Use the slide deck to complete the activity. 

  1. Open the "Observing the Sun During a Total Solar Eclipse" Interactive Slide Deck. 
  2. Use the slides in edit mode in order to manipulate the slides. 
  3. Create your own eclipse drawing using instructions from the slide deck.

Teacher Note

Teachers who are interested in receiving the answer key, please complete the Teacher Key Request and Verification Form. We verify that requestors are teachers prior to sending access to the answer keys as we’ve had many students try to pass as teachers to gain access.

NASA Heliophysics Education Activation Team logo showing the Sun with rays leaving it. It also shows planets in the path of some of the Sun's radiation.
This product is supported by the NASA Heliophysics Education Activation Team (NASA HEAT), part of NASA's Science Activation portfolio.

Supported NGSS Performance Expectations

  • Students will be able to identify what scientists learn about the Sun from viewing a total solar eclipse.
  1. What is a solar eclipse?
  2. What is the difference between a partial and total solar eclipse?
  3. Why do scientist study solar the Sun during solar eclipses?
  • Internet Required
  • One-to-a-Group

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Document Resources

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Grade Band

  • 6-8
  • 9-12

Time

  • 50 minutes

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