Twisted Astronomy: An in-Depth Study of Neutron Stars
This course guides learners through the bizarre world of neutron stars. We discuss the formation of neutron stars, the layers inside neutron stars (including nuclear pasta and super fluids), and the unique properties of these phenomenon.
Kelly McGrath
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(859)
Popular
What's included
18 live meetings
15 in-class hoursAssignments
1 hour per week. Each week, learners will have access to an optional assignment. Assignments consist of questions designed to help learners process the information learned in the week's lesson. Each assignment consists of 3-7 open-ended questions.Projects
There will be optional unit projects. These will involve learners creating diagrams to illustrate their understanding of the behavior of materials inside neutron stars.Certificate of Completion
includedClass Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
Advanced Level
Welcome to the bizarre world of neutron stars. These are some of the strangest objects in the universe. This class will guide learners to a better understanding of the truly unique objects in space. We meet once a week in a live video class. I present a slideshow and talk over the features that are the week's topic. Most of the class is lecture-style with me explaining neutron stars. I frequently stop and ask questions, and learners are always welcome to ask their own questions throughout each class. I also give recommendations of notes to take or things to write down to enhance the learning experience. Learners will also have several opportunities to create diagrams and sketches to illustrate the phenomenon we discuss in class. I am an enthusiastic educator who is very excited to share my knowledge of neutron stars. Learners with all ranges of background knowledge are welcome, but know that I do address several advanced physics concepts in the class. I don't go over any of the math calculations behind the concepts, but some of the concepts will seem very strange. Some of these concepts include: basic field theory in particle physics, superfluids, nuclear pasta, and radioactive decay. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns about the class content.
Learning Goals
Learners will understand and be able to explain the unique properties of neutron stars, including their magnetic fields, radiation emission, and spin rates.Learners will know the process of a supernova and how this process leads to the creation of a neutron star.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created CurriculumStandards
Aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)4 Units
18 Lessons
over 18 WeeksUnit 1: Creation of Neutron Stars
Lesson 1:
Introducing Neutron Stars
Learners will:
~ Share previous knowledge about neutron stars
~ Learn basic facts about neutron stars
~ Study the process of a massive star burning fuel and understand that massive stars can turn into neutron stars at the end of their life cycle 50 mins online live lesson
1 assignment
Lesson 2:
Triggering a Supernova
Learners will:
~ Understand that the core of a red supergiant can only be maintained up to a certain point, and after that point the core will collapse
~ Know the importance of the particles in the star's core
~ Sketch diagrams to show how electrons in the star's core act as a supernova is triggered 50 mins online live lesson
1 assignment
Lesson 3:
How Does a Core Collapse?
Learners will:
~ Sketch and understand the process of electron capture in the core of collapsing neutron stars
~ Understand specific processes that happen in the collapsing core, including photodisintegration, neutrino collisions, and the release of gamma rays 50 mins online live lesson
1 assignment
Lesson 4:
A Neutron Star is Born
Learners will:
~ Understand how a red supergiant core collapse leads to the formation of a neutron star
~ Study the neutron at a particle level and know what it's made of and what keeps it together 50 mins online live lesson
1 assignment
Other Details
Supply List
I recommend having a notebook or folder designated for notes just for this class. We will refer to previous lessons and having your notes handy will make class much easier.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
Inspiration for the class came from reading the following book:
Moskvitch, K. (2020b). Neutron stars: The Quest to understand the zombies of the cosmos. Harvard University Press.
I found additional information in the following journal articles:
Andersson, N. (2021). A superfluid perspective on neutron star dynamics. Universe, 7(1), 17–30. https://doi.org/10.3390/universe7010017
Balibar, S. (2007). The discovery of superfluidity. Journal of Low Temperature Physics, 146(5–6), 441–470. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10909-006-9276-7
Igoshev, A. P., Popov, S. B., & Hollerbach, R. (2021). Evolution of neutron star Magnetic Fields. Universe, 7(9), 351. https://doi.org/10.3390/universe7090351
Joined January, 2020
4.9
859reviews
Popular
Teacher expertise and credentials
Bachelor's Degree in Education from St. Cloud State University
I have a bachelor degree in education from St. Cloud State University in MN. Since then I have kept updated on teaching techniques by attending yearly meetings of Education Minnesota, as well as following common education journals. I have been teaching homeschoolers ages 6-21 for 18+ years. During that time I've taught all traditional subjects and found ways to tailor them to the needs and learning styles of all learners. I have taught math, chemistry, and physics on Outschool for 4 years.
I have studied particle physics and astrophysics for the past 3 years, and continue to attend lectures to broaden my base knowledge and help me teach the most up-to-date material possible in this changing field. I make sure to keep updated on the advancements made by Fermilab and Cern, two of the leading particle physics facilities in the world. Most of the lectures I attend are through Fermilab, which exposes me to some of the most up-to-date and widely accepted ideas in particle physics and astrophysics.
During my time teaching I've had many learners ask about the subatomic world and what we know about it, which has helped me create strategies in teaching this content.Reviews
Live Group Course
$20
weekly or $360 for 18 classes1x per week, 18 weeks
50 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-14
2-8 learners per class
