Sky Legends of the Ancient World

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Journey back in time to hear the exotic star myths of the early civilizations of India, Egypt, China, and Mesopotamia. We’ll also relate creative stories of the constellations as told by the ancient Greeks and Romans.

Teacher Guide

Objectives

  • Identify any planets visible to the unaided eye in the current evening sky, and name at least three constellations visible after sunset.
  • Relate two legends from those heard in the planetarium.
  • Identify at least one constellation pattern or celestial phenomenon unique to each culture described.
  • Explain the characteristics of circumpolar stars and describe their importance to the ancient cultures described.
 

Ohio's Learning Standards

Grade 6

History – Early Civilizations
Early civilizations (India, Egypt, China, and Mesopotamia) with unique governments, economic systems, social structures, religions, technologies, and agricultural products flourished as a result of favorable geographic characteristics.

Grade 7

Earth and Space Science – Cycles and Patterns of the Earth and Moon
The relative patterns of motion and positions of the Earth, Moon, and Sun cause solar and lunar eclipses, and phases of the Moon.

History – Early Civilizations
The civilizations that developed in Greece and Rome had an enduring impact on later civilizations. This legacy includes governance and law, engineering and technology, art and architecture, as well as literature and history.

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