Module A2 is a hands-on Hertzsprung–Russell (HR) diagram curriculum designed to teach stellar properties and stellar evolution through physical modeling. Using magnetic star models that represent real stars with accurate surface temperatures, luminosities, and classifications, teachers and students build and interpret a complete HR diagram on a whiteboard.
As students place and organize stars, they identify key patterns such as the main sequence, giants, supergiants, and white dwarfs. Instruction emphasizes comparing stellar temperature and luminosity, reading logarithmic and non-linear axes, and understanding how stars change position on the HR diagram over time. This approach supports conceptual understanding of star classification and stellar life cycles rather than rote diagram memorization.
The magnets feature clear visual cues, including color and labeled data, to support reasoning about stellar size, energy output, and evolutionary stage. Lessons are structured to allow the HR diagram to be constructed progressively, reinforcing how astronomers use observational data to classify stars and infer their physical properties.
Teacher sets are larger and optimized for whole-class demonstrations, while student sets are scaled for small-group or individual work on tabletop or handheld whiteboards. The module includes complete teacher and student guides with structured questions and extension activities. All magnets arrive in clasp folders for organized storage and long-term classroom use.
Module A2 is a hands-on Hertzsprung–Russell (HR) diagram curriculum designed to teach stellar properties and stellar evolution through physical modeling. Using magnetic star models that represent real stars with accurate surface temperatures, luminosities, and classifications, teachers and students build and interpret a complete HR diagram on a whiteboard.
As students place and organize stars, they identify key patterns such as the main sequence, giants, supergiants, and white dwarfs. Instruction emphasizes comparing stellar temperature and luminosity, reading logarithmic and non-linear axes, and understanding how stars change position on the HR diagram over time. This approach supports conceptual understanding of star classification and stellar life cycles rather than rote diagram memorization.
The magnets feature clear visual cues, including color and labeled data, to support reasoning about stellar size, energy output, and evolutionary stage. Lessons are structured to allow the HR diagram to be constructed progressively, reinforcing how astronomers use observational data to classify stars and infer their physical properties.
Teacher sets are larger and optimized for whole-class demonstrations, while student sets are scaled for small-group or individual work on tabletop or handheld whiteboards. The module includes complete teacher and student guides with structured questions and extension activities. All magnets arrive in clasp folders for organized storage and long-term classroom use.
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