like the children used their own bodies! They want to know more about how the Moon's gravity has affected the Earth over their long history together. They use mathematics to describe how the masses, speeds, and directions of the Sun, Earth, and Moon interact in space; and the computer combines all of the factors together to show the overall effect. Mathematics and computers are tools for looking at the past, into the future, and considering what might have been!
Now that the children have modeled the Moon's gravity and its major influence on our oceans, invite them to explore further. Invite them to check out books and videos about the oceans, seashore animals, and tides and share them — and their new knowledge of the Moon's importance — with their families.
Invite everyone to return for the next program, Moon Mythbusters, where they will put their science skills to the test!
May 9, 2011