2024 Solar Eclipse
For the first time since 1806 Ohio will be the site of a total solar eclipse. While many portions of the state will have the opportunity to experience totality, even those outside the path of totality will see 95% or more of the sun eclipsed. Provisions for safe viewing of this once in a lifetime eclipse event are important at every Ohio location.
Educator Resources
GENERAL:
The resources listed below are general resources applicable to any school setting.
- This WBGU series explores everything eclipses. From taking a look at the total solar eclipse going directly through Northwest Ohio April 8, 2024, to an in-depth and age-appropriate understanding of solar and lunar eclipses. The series addresses the role of Community Preparedness Committees through the eyes of the upcoming total solar eclipse and talk to a Bowling Green State University (BGSU) astronomy professor about their career path. A solar eclipse guide is also available.
- The Environmental Education Council of Ohio has curated a newsletter focused on the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse. This newsletter has valuable background information for educators, activities to stimulate student and public engagement with the eclipse and other valuable resources.
- This recording was created for school administrators and details how unique and transformative viewing the eclipse can be as an educational experience.
- The American Astronomical Society (AAS) has a list of vendors selling approved eclipse viewing devices. When using any vendor, check that the product meets the requirements of the ISO 12312-2 international standard. There may be vendors falsely advertising compliance with this code. See advice from AAS for determining safety.
- What School Administrators and Other Education Leaders Need to Know from the National Science Teaching Association provides a concise overview to help school leaders understand curricular and safety implications of the 2024 eclipse.
- SOLAR ECLIPSES of 2023 and 2024 A North American “Double-Header” is a comprehensive guide for public libraries. It provides information and suggestions for program planning, partnerships and safe viewing. There are handouts provided in both English and Spanish for the public for both the annular and total eclipse events.
- NSTA provides Free web seminars accessible from their Eclipse webpage: https://www.nsta.org/eclipse.
- National Geographic has produced a Solar Eclipse 101 video which provides descriptions of the different types of solar eclipses and tips for viewing.
- The department has provided access to an eclipse bookmark that can be downloaded for distribution to students or community members.
- Accessibility for Visually Impaired ARISA lab has a soundscape app which allows persons with visual impairments to experience eclipses through sound and touch. Light levels are translated to sound and vibrations so progressive stages of an eclipse can be experienced. Can be downloaded from the Google Play or Apple App Store.
WEBINARS
Preparing for the 2024 Eclipse with Dennis Schatz, Tuesday February 27, 2024, 4:15 p.m.
Join Dennis Schatz, Former President of the National Science Teaching Association, co-developer of the NSTA Solar Eclipse resource webpage and co-author of NSTA Press books, Solar Science and When the Sun Goes Dark, key resources for educators during solar eclipses. Dennis will share things that educators should know leading up to the April 8, 2024 Total Solar Eclipse and lesson plans to get students engaged and excited to learn about and experience the eclipse. Register here
Viewing Eclipses with Dr. Gordon Telepun: Dr. Gordon Telepun, a medical surgeon, has become an expert in viewing and photographing total solar eclipses. In this recording with the Science Team, he shares timeline-based tips as to what you can expect, what you need to be ready and how to get the most out of the total solar eclipse that will occur April 8. 2024.
LESSON SUPPORTS
The links below are collections of lessons and activities organized by most appropriate grade band
Eclipse educator guide from WBGU-PBS and Bowling Green State University
The Department of Education and Workforce, in partnership with Ohio Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) stations, is sharing the Sun, Moon & Shadows eclipse guide and activity companion designed for teachers that follows along with WBGU’s eclipse video series.
Soar into the enchanting world of celestial wonders with this information and activity book dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of eclipses. The guide is designed for inquisitive minds of all ages and may be used for at-home learning, classroom activities, or as a portable companion for stargazing enthusiasts.
Within these pages, discover the magic of eclipses through a blend of information and hands-on activities. Investigate the science behind solar and lunar eclipses while learning and practicing literacy, math, and social studies skills.
The Ohio Learns 360 project and this educational guide are funded by a grant from the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce to Ohio Public Broadcasting Service stations, including WBGU-Public Broadcasting Service and Bowling Green State University.
Medina County Health Department
Celebrate the Total Solar Eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024, with a Solar Sparkler! We're pretty sure that Medina is the only one to have its very own Solar Eclipse Mocktail.
This one is courtesy of the Medina County Health Department. Your favorite spirits can be added to make it even more special! This refreshing mocktail pairs perfectly with a safe, reliable set of solar eclipse glasses.