The Story of Carl Sagan
Awe and wonder | Suitable for 10-16 year olds
Star Stuff
The short film Star Stuff tells the story of scientist Carl Sagan, whose early curiosity led him to explore the universe.
He inspired millions.
But who inspires you and why?
Can you write a biography to inspire your readers?
Video by Triaxial Space โ embedded & hosted by Vimeo
Thinking idea
- What inspired Carl Sagan as a child?
- What challenges did he face โ and how did he overcome them?
- How did Carl Sagan combine science with storytelling to reach and inspire others?
- What qualities do you think makes someone inspiring?
- Who inspires you โ and why?
Discussion idea
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Why is it important to tell the stories of people who inspire us?
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What makes Carl Saganโs life story powerful, even for people who arenโt scientists?
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Talk about people you have met who have inspired you. Can ordinary people be just as inspiring as famous ones? Why?
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When you read a biography, which parts inspire you? Why do you think that is? Can you pinpoint what it is about other peopleโs lives that helps us learn more about our own dreams?
Writing idea
- Write a biographical piece about someone who inspires you โ this could be a public figure, a historical person, a family member, or a teacher.
- Focus on what shaped their life, not just the facts, and include personal or emotional detail. Express why and how they inspired you.
- Use the style and tone of Star Stuff as inspiration. Be poetic, curious, hopeful โ and be sure to move your reader.
- Try to make your biographical piece creative, not just factual.
Teaching idea
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Watch the video and pause to discuss the life-changing points in Saganโs life.
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Model on your whiteboard Carl Saganโs early life, challenges, inspirations, achievements, and legacy.
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Encourage students to use quotes and retell anecdotes about their chosen person.
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Discuss different types of biography โ for example, purely factual accounts and more creative, narrative-driven life stories.
Resources
- Read the middle grade novel See You in the Cosmos by Jack Cheng. In the story, the main characterโs hero is Carl Sagan. Hereโs a guide for teachers.
- Visit the Carl Sagan website which includes details about his life, dreams and legacy.
- Read more about the Pale Blue Dot in this article by The Planetary Society.
- Explore the features of biographical writing with this interactive guide for younger students by BBC Bitesize, and this guide for older students by BBC Teach.
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Star Stuff โ A Story of Carl Sagan
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