Making a Time Map for
the Universe
Hands On Assignment Lesson 1
In this course we will be dealing with time spans that are
beyond our ability to imagine. However, we can try to understand
the time intervals for events. We will make a simple time model
of the events that have occurred in our universe so far.
| Materials: |
Each group will receive 15 index cards
and some scotch tape. |
| Activity: |
The universe is thought
to be between 12 and 15 billion years old.
Each index card stands for one billion years.
Tape the index cards together to make a long row of cards.
The orange is where the tape should be. Number each card. |
Now let's put in the significant events.
On the left hand edge of the first card, make a line and label
it "The Big Bang". This represents the beginning of
the universe. All the matter in the universe suddenly appeared
in less than a second! Where we are today is on the right
hand edge of card 15.
- Galaxies began to form about
10 billion years ago.
Mark this event on the correct card.
- Our sun began burning as a main
sequence star 4.5 billion years ago.
Find the right card and label it. Think
carefully here!
- The earth is also about 4.5 billion
years old.
Label the card that shows when the earth was
formed.
Now let's put in some information
about the evolution of life on earth.
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Put in the date of the first appearance
of life.
Put in the date of the first multicellular
animals.
Put in the date of the first fishes.
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Put in the date of the dinosaurs.
Put in the date of the first mammals.
Where do humans fit in this picture?
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You can find charts that will
help you at
© 1998. Elizabeth Anne Viau. All rights
reserved. This material may be used by individuals for instructional
purposes but not sold. Please inform the author if you use it
at eviau@earthlink.net.
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