Galaxy-Classification Activity for All Ages

TL;DR

This paper presents a versatile galaxy classification activity adapted for learners of all ages, emphasizing hands-on engagement and educational strategies to teach scientific taxonomy and astronomy.

Contribution

It introduces a flexible, age-appropriate galaxy classification activity and shares facilitation strategies for effective science education across diverse learner groups.

Findings

Effective for engaging students in astronomy education

Adaptable activity for K-3 to college levels

Enhanced understanding of scientific classification

Abstract

Classification is a general tool of science; it is used to sort and categorize biological organisms, chemical elements, astronomical objects, and many other things. In scientific classification, taxonomy often reflects shared physical properties that, in turn, may indicate shared origins and/or evolution. A "hands-on" galaxy-classification activity developed and implemented by Professional Development Program (PDP) participants, for a high-school summer STEM enrichment program, has been adopted for various age groups and venues, from young (K-3) to college students. We detail the basic tools required, outline the general activity, and describe the modifications to the activity based on learners' ages and learning objectives. We describe the facilitation strategies learned through PDP training and used when implementing the activity, including prompts to motivate the students. We also discuss how we connected the classification process to astronomy and science more broadly during the concluding remarks.