Educational Resources - University of Southern Indiana

Educational Resources by Grade Level

Welcome to USI's Solar Eclipse teaching resources for elementary, middle and high school teachers. We've created tailored lesson plans, interactive activities, and short videos to teach students about the science, history and cultural significance of solar eclipses. Our resources are designed to make this captivating celestial event come to life in your classroom, ensuring an unforgettable learning experience for students at every level. We've also provided links to various lessons, activities and materials available on other educational websites.

Also, don't miss our Teacher Education Department workshops on April 8, 2024 at USI.

Elementary

Middle School / High School

(Puzzle Key to Worksheets and Middle School Math Activity)

All Grade Levels

Links to partner resources

2024 Total Solar Eclipse Educational Overview | Indiana Department of Homeland Security
Eclipse Guide, Resources and Webinars | National Science Teaching Association
A Solar Eclipse Double-Header (PDF) | National Science Teaching Association
Solar Eclipse Activity Lesson Plan | Exploratorium
Astronomy Lesson Plans (10 options) | Science Buddies
Solar Eclipse Lesson Plans and Activity Guides (nine options) | National Solar Observatory
NASA Mini Lessons | My NASA Data

Eclipse Day Teacher Education Department Workshops

Offered April 8, 2024 on the USI Campus

To the Moon!
Come participate in a NASA engineering design challenge. This activity is targeted for upper elementary grades but families with children in the lower grades can easily participate as a team of engineers.
Located in the Screaming Eagles Complex, Room 259 from 9-11 a.m. (Space is limited)

Family and Community Engagement through Momentous Events
Join us as we facilitate a “town hall” discussion with participants about organizing and engaging their communities with significant natural events, such as the solar eclipse. Participants will leave with a call to action to improve family, community and K-12 engagement.
Located in the Education Center, Room 2117 from 9-10 a.m. (Space is limited)

For more information or to RSVP, contact Jeff Thomas.

Indiana Educators: Alignment to Indiana Standards for the 2024 Eclipse

The videos, made by education professionals at USI, give some examples of how to incorporate discussion of the eclipse into the standards, along with activities that may be useful in the classroom for preparing for the eclipse.

Mathematics

View Dr. Creager's Presentation

Teaching the Eclipse

Reading Comprehension

The following documents show ways to fit discussions of the upcoming eclipse into the Indiana education standards in science, math, and literacy for K-5, middle school, and high school students.