Introduction

'What does this subject have to do with me?' This is an important question students sometimes ask. But answering the question isn't always easy as each different 'me' might relate to or connect with the topic in different ways. The following activity is what's called a Subject Sampler. The idea of a sampler is that people who are given the choice will choose things they like or are curious about trying. Boxes of chocolates, compilation CD's, and smorgasbord buffets all work on this principle. In the following activity, you'll find links to Web sites related to the topic of Asteroids. After each link are three prompts designed to get you to answer one question: 'What does this subject have to do with me?' After all, you can answer that better than anyone else.

Web Activities

Asteroids

1. In your own words explain what an asteroid is. Use the information you have just read to help you.
2. Draw your own diagram of an asteroid belt.
3. Why do you think asteroids are able to rotate in this special 'belt'?

History of Asteroids

1. Carefully read the information. Name the largest known Asteroid.
2. Why do you think asteroids are different sizes?
3. Is it possible that there is a larger asteroid than the one you named? Explain your answer.

Great Balls of Fire

1. Take a look at the first two paragraphs. Why do you think people like Tom Gehrels study Asteroids? List two reasons in your answer.
2. In the information they talk about 'Earth Killers'. What do you think they are talking about? Give a reason for your answer.
3. Now it is your turn! Think of some other names, besides 'Earth Killers' for asteroids.

All about Comets!

1. Scientist find comets really fascinating. After reading the information what fascinating facts did you discover? List four of them.
2. Read the last paragraph. What might life on Earth be like if a large comet or asteroid had not impacted with our Earth millions of years ago?
3. Paint a picture illustrating your answer to the previous question.

Comets

1. Read the information about comets. List the three things comets are made from.
2. When are we able to see a comet from the Earth?
3. Halley's Comet is visible to us every 76 years. When will we have the next chance to see this comet in our night skies?

Conclusion

By now you should have a better idea how this topic does relate to you. This Sampler was created because although it's important to learn information about things and to think critically about subjects, further learning doesn't always take place if a personal connection doesn't first exist. We hope that through this Sampler you've found such a connection. If you have, maybe you're motivated to learn more? The Internet and traditional resources offer plenty of other choices to explore on the topic so why not follow your interests?