[Ryan Coady]

I also like the idea of linking the night sky to seasonal events such as Samhain. I think that is a nice way to integrate many subjetcs. Thanks.

[Ryan Coady]

 

• Teach students about dark sky places, light pollution, and its effects on wildlife
• Show pictures of communities from around the world.
• Have students examine lighting around the school or their home
• Students create their own Dark Sky Place (e.g., park, schoolyard, or town)
• Students can share their designs through posters or models explaining how their ideas reduce light pollution.
• The teacher could also invite a guest speaker or launch a “Lights Out” campaign in school

[Ryan Coady]

I also really like the idea of designing homes for the animals and the students would really enjoy constructing these.

[Ryan Coady]

To engage learners in Ireland in exploring local biodiversity and the impacts of light pollution, start with a simple biodiversity walk around the school grounds, local park, or woodland area.  Discuss and show native Irish plants and ask them to look our for native Irish plants, insects, and birds on their walk. The class could even do this with at night-time – students can observe or record sounds and sightings near their homes at night.

Introduce the concept of light pollution and its effects on nocturnal animals, such as bats, moths, and hedgehogs, which are common in Ireland. . This helps them understand how artificial light limits natural visibility and disrupts animal behaviour.

 

[Ryan Coady]

Light pollution is increasingly impacting towns across Ireland, including our own. The artificial lighting from streetlights, homes, and businesses disrupts local wildlife, particularly bats and birds, which rely on natural darkness for feeding and navigation.  The night sky in our town is now dimmer, making it difficult to see stars

To engage learners in exploring this, I would begin with a nighttime sky observation that the kids could complete in their own homes and compare it with rural areas using online sky maps. Cross-curricular activities in science, geography, and art would allow them to investigate causes, effects, and actions,

[Ryan Coady]

Hi Olive,

The idea of the kids doing a research project at home is a great idea!

[Ryan Coady]

The sky diary is a great idea thanks.

[Ryan Coady]

Hi Sarah,

I was not aware of the stellarium app previously however it seems like a fantastic resource. Thanks!

[Ryan Coady]

Autumn is a great time to look at the night sky and see some amazing planets! On clear evenings from September to November, you can spot several bright planets without needing a telescope.

Apps such as stellarium could be used to check for set/rise times based on your location. We would discuss where the best areas are for viewing the night sky for example dark sky areas away from streetlights. It might also be helpful to check with some astronomy groups who may be holding stargazing events or those who would come in to the class to give them some more information and tips.

It is also important to bring binoculars or a small telescope, especially for seeing rings, moons, or faint planets like Uranus/Neptune however many will be visible to the naked eye.
It is also important to avoid cloudy nights—autumn in Ireland can be unpredictable and therefore researching and planning for multiple nights to view the sky would be beneficial to improve chances of seeing more.

 

[Ryan Coady]

I would construct a sundial in a sunny, open area of the school yard,. I would discuss the materials needed especially those that will work in the Irish weather I would mark where the shadow falls each hour and label those points to show the time.

This project could be integrated across several subjects. In Science, students can learn about the Earth’s rotation and how it causes day and night. In maths they can measure angles for example,  Geography lessons can cover latitude, time zones, and how ancient civilizations used the sun for navigation and calendars. In History, we could explore how sundials were used before  clocks. Finally, in Art, students could help decorate the sundial or design creative hour markers.

By combining these subjects, the sundial becomes more than just a science project—it’s a hands-on, cross-curricular learning experience that helps students connect time, space, and nature. This is something that I will try with my class next year!

[Ryan Coady]

Hi Caoimhe,

I really like the idea of field trips and visiting local areas as a way to see real life examples of sustainability in action. I think that is really important and it gives the children a better understanding of sustainability while also elevating their interest in a topic. Thanks

[Ryan Coady]

Hi Shirley,

I also agree that it is important to discuss the nutritional benefits of seafood with the class when discussing the food pyramid and healthy eating. I will make sure to focus on this from here on in. Thanks

[Ryan Coady]

Hi Fiona,

Thanks for the ideas regarding how these topics can be integrated across different subjects. I hope to use some of these next year.

[Ryan Coady]

Hi Luke ,

I also found it interesting that the majority of aquaculture farms are located along the west coast due to the land for the most part being unsuitable for agriculture.

[Ryan Coady]

I also agree that the ARC would be a fantastic resource for schools and I have already joined the waiting list for next year.

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