25.03.2023

Museu Aberto da Astronomia is chosen for the conclusion of the Y5’s Unit of Inquiry

By Gabriel Oliveira

Completing the Unit of Inquiry “Planet Earth” process, the 5th grade (Y5) went on a Field Trip to the MAAS (Open Museum of Astronomy). The students delved into the history of planet Earth in an interactive environment, participating in creative activities led by specialized guides. 

The children learned about the first discoveries in astronomy and discussed the possibilities that the future holds for the field. At the museum, they were exposed to some of the most recent scientific discoveries, taking into account the current state of research. The presence of scientists and astronomers at MAAS provided the students with a dynamic that valued interaction. Thus, Y5 asked questions and established a dialogue with the specialists, and were even able to meet an astronaut who told them about his experiences. Through this exchange, they had the opportunity to clarify their doubts, satisfy their curiosity, and enhance the knowledge previously acquired in the classroom.

At school, the students developed the basis for the trip, deepening their knowledge about the Earth, the Sun, and the Moon. Besides the individual functioning of the stars, another discussion held was about the influences they exert on each other, such as the role of the Sun and the Moon in the construction of the cycles and seasons and between day and night. Through a transdisciplinary approach, they produced everything from lunettes – based on the study of optical instruments – to poetic entries. 

The main value worked on during the visit was the investigative instinct, constantly instigated by the guides and reinforced as a fundamental element of astronomy. The favorable environment for questions served to support the school curriculum, stimulating the students’ curiosity from an early age.