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Einstein Revealed
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Viewing Ideas
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Before Watching
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Einstein spent much of his life thinking about what he couldn't
observe directly, such as the speed of light and how time is
affected by motion. Students often have a difficult time
understanding what they cannot see. To help students "see" that
there are other forms of radiant energy besides visible light,
copy and distribute the
Seeing the Invisible
activity sheet. Point out that visible light is a form of energy
we can see, but there are a number of other forms of radiant
energy all around us that we can't see. Gather materials and
complete the three activities with students to help them better
"see" infrared radiation. In "Temperature, Temperature" they'll
measure a temperature change caused by the absorption of
infrared radiation; in "Feel the Heat" they'll feel the
existence of infrared radiation; and in "Wrap It Up" they'll
observe a temperature difference resulting from the reflection
of infrared radiation. As they watch the program, have students
look for how Einstein studied elements that he could not see.
(See the
Activity Answer
for more information on each of these.)
After Watching
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Discuss with students how their perceptions of Einstein as a
scientist and as a person have changed, if at all. What
information most surprised them? What were the advantages and
disadvantages of Einstein's tremendous drive, in terms of his
scientific achievements and personal life? Have students discuss
any similarities between Einstein and people who excel in other
fields, such as sports or music.
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Despite being a genius, Einstein was affected by the social and
political climate around him. Refer to reference materials to
recall the major historical events during Einstein's lifetime.
Discuss what effect these events might have had on his career
and personal life. In what ways did he apply his ideas to or get
involved with issues outside of science?
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