2. How Big, Far, Hot, and Old is the Universe?

Activity 1 - The Scale of the Universe

Activity Tasks

Watch the video 'Cosmic Voyage' to get a sense of the scale of things from the very large to the very small. Try this video for more information on scale.
Now discuss these questions in pairs. Share your answers with the class:
1. Why would anyone want to look at the Universe from a distance? What would that be good for?
2. Why would anyone want to look at anything so close? What would that be good for?

Activity Task
In groups of 4, complete and discuss your ordering of:

How Big is the Universe? - Arrange the pictures in order of actual size from smallest to largest.
How Far is the Universe? - Arrange the pictures in order of distance from the surface of the Earth, from closest to most distant.
How Hot is the Universe? - Arrange the pictures in order of how hot they are, from coolest to hottest.
How Old is the Universe? - Arrange the pictures in order of age, from the youngest to the oldest.

Activity Tasks

In groups, calculate the numbers you need on this worksheet to figure out where each event should go on the string, assuming the string is 13.8 metres long.
Now on your 13.8 metre (1,380cm) piece of string, measure where each event in the history of the Universe goes with a coloured pen, using the calculations from your worksheet.
Attach a label using paper and tape to the string to represent each of the key events. Write down what happened and how long ago it happened on each label.
Now set-up your timelines and take a picture for the evidencer. Then discuss these questions:
1. Why does it seem like so much more happens at the end of your timelines? What does that tell you about the Universe?
2. Is there truly more happening now? Or do we just think more recent events are more important?
3. If there is more happening now, why? What might be causing an increase in activity?