Aurora-Northern Light

Description: Before beginning the activity, we selected colored paper and divided it into six sections. Each section was labeled as follows: light, heavy, light blending, heavy blending, blending with fingers, and blending with oil. We experimented with various techniques and then took two small black construction sheets. On the first sheet, we drew and cut out mountain shapes. We then traced these mountains onto the second black construction sheet. Using three or more colors, we created our Northern Lights; I chose purple, blue, and green. After completing the Northern Lights, we added snow to the cutout mountains and glued them onto the Northern Lights sheet. Once everything was finished, we personalized our artwork. Some people added stars, while I included animals and snow on my mountains.

Extension Activity: Students will explore the science behind the aurora borealis through a hands-on experiment and creative project. They will begin by watching a video explaining the causes of the Northern Lights, including the interaction between solar wind and Earth's magnetic field. Students will visualize how Earth's magnetic field works using magnets and iron filings. They will then create their own aurora borealis artwork using glow-in-the-dark paint to simulate the lights. The activity will include discussions on the different gases in the atmosphere that produce various colors and the occurrence of auroras on other planets. Finally, students will research how scientists predict aurora activity and the impact of solar storms on Earth's technology.