Slooh launches new satellite-based Earth science curriculum for grades 5-9 emphasizing real-world STEM learning

Slooh, known for its live online telescope feeds and standards-aligned learning tools, has announced a new Earth science curriculum targeting US students grades 5-9. 

The program incorporates satellite data to explore key concepts in geology, geography, and environmental science while introducing students to careers in the space and IT industries.

Leveraging satellite data for real-world learning

The curriculum uses data from SkyFi, allowing students to observe and analyze Earth's features and phenomena through Slooh’s platform. Interactive Quests guide students as they examine topics such as natural disasters, urban planning, and atmospheric events. The program also includes lessons on satellite IT, teaching how satellites are developed, maintained, and monitored.

Michael Paolucci, founder of Slooh, highlighted the potential impact of the curriculum:

“Utilizing aggregated satellite data from our partners at SkyFi, the new Earth science curriculum allows students to explore, capture, and analyze real-world phenomena within the Slooh platform like never before. 

“We are hopeful that by providing increased opportunities to authentically learn about our home planet, students will be more interested—and prepared—to one day pursue a career in space and STEM industries.”

The curriculum is aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and is designed for Earth science and career and technical education courses. It will be released in beta in January 2025 and made available at no additional cost to Slooh platform users. Slooh plans to use feedback from educators to further refine the program.

Speaking exclusively to ETIH, Elly Rizk, Director of Learning Experience at Slooh, commented: 

“Our new Earth curriculum provides learners in 5th through 9th grade with the opportunity to gather data from satellites orbiting Earth. Learner agency is supported throughout our experiential, age-appropriate activities where students collect and analyze data and draw independent conclusions. 

“Along the way, they are introduced to career pathways and build skills to become college and career ready.”

Slooh will host a free webinar for educators and administrators on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 1 p.m. Eastern Time. The session will provide an overview of the curriculum and its applications in the classroom.