Inventing Flight
One hundred and five years ago, humans first took flight. It was the inventive, creative minds of two Ohio brothers that made it possible. We know their names, but what else can we learn from the Wright Brothers? We hear from Tom Crouch, from the Smithsonian Institution and author of The Bishop's Boys.
Copernicus and Galileo
Copernicus was ridiculed by his peers and Galileo was found guilty of heresy by the Catholic church for their views that the Sun (not the Earth) was the center of the Solar System. The video has a fascinating account of Galileo's observations of Venus. Run time 05:06.
Galileo: Discovering Jupiter's Moons
The telescope forever changed astronomy by providing more detailed views of distant objects than was previously possible. Galileo pioneered astronomy as the first person to study the celestial objects through a telescope. His observations, including the discovery of moons around Jupiter, helped revolutionize the way people thought about the universe. This video segment adapted from NOVA describes some of Galileo's first discoveries with the telescope. Closed captioning included. Run time 03:04.
Galileo on the Moon
Galileo used thought experiments to test many assumptions, including the notion that heavy objects fall more quickly than lighter objects when they are dropped. Lacking access to either a vacuum chamber or a planetary body that has no atmosphere, he nevertheless correctly predicted that all falling objects would accelerate at the same rate in the absence of air resistance. In this video segment from NASA, astronaut David Scott demonstrates the correctness of Galileo's prediction. Run time 0:47.
Galileo: Sun-Centered System
Before the 17th century, people generally believed that Earth was at the center of the universe. Galileo, however, was not afraid to challenge existing beliefs when he published his work in support of the Sun-centered, or heliocentric, Copernican theory. In this video segment adapted from NOVA, learn about the two opposing worldviews and the strong piece of evidence Galileo offered to support the heliocentric theory. Closed captioning included. Run time 05:06.
Galileo: Sunspots
Galileo used his telescope to gather data about the heavens, and his observations and theories sparked much controversy. Contrary to the popular belief of the time, Galileo suggested that Earth was not the center of the universe. In this video segment adapted from NOVA, the importance of unbiased scientific inquiry is demonstrated by Galileo's observations of sunspots. Closed captioning included. Run time 03:42.
Leonardo Da Vinci -The Man Who Knew Everything
Note:Â There may be artistic nudity. Leonardo da Vinci is considered to have been an artistic genius. This is the story of one of the greatest minds in human history. A scientist, mathematician, engineer, inventor, anatomist, painter, sculptor, architect, botanist, musician and writer, Leonardo Da Vinci (1452--1519) was arguably the primary figure of the Renaissance. He painted what is probably the most recognizable painting of all time: Mona Lisa. He also designed terrifying w
Leonardo Da Vinci (Part 18 of 18)
 Leonardo da Vinci is considered to have been an artistic genius. This is the story of one of the greatest minds in human history. A scientist, mathematician, engineer, inventor, anatomist, painter, sculptor, architect, botanist, musician and writer, Leonardo Da Vinci (1452--1519) was arguably the primary figure of the Renaissance. He painted what is probably the most recognizable painting of all time: Mona Lisa. (10:00)
History: DaVinci Perfected World's Largest Horse Statue
Leonardo DaVinci conceived, but never finished, the world's largest equine statue. This project failure has puzzled scholars ever since. Kasey-Dee Gardner finds out why this project came to a grinding halt.
History: DaVinci's Outline In The Last Supper?
Did Leonardo DaVinci use his own shadow to create the outline of Jesus in The Last Supper? James Williams speaks with a researcher who has found evidence in Leonardo's manuscripts suggesting that's the case.
Leonardo da Vinci Paintings
 A tribute to Leonardo da Vinci.
Italian Renaissance painter, sculptor, architect, author, engineer, inventor, lutanist, mathematician & scientist
born 15 April 1452 - died 1519
Learn About Leonardo Da Vinci
This one minute biography touches on the most important works of DaVinci including his art and inventions.
Siegfried Woldhek shows how he found the true face of Leonardo
This 4:21 video lecture is about the narrator's search for an image of Leonardo and the problem solving approach that he used. This is a wonderful video that shows students how they can use their powers of observation and deduction to reach conclusions.
Leonardo da Vinci
A 14 minute biography that deals with his life through recreations and the use of his work. The video explains why he was so successful because of his understanding of the mechanical side of nature. Good quotes. Teachers may wish to skip the first part where the word bastard is used to describe his standing in the world at that time. An excellent video
Life Cycle of a Hurricane
This video delivers a dynamic presentation on the development and evolution of hurricanes. Run time 59:59
How a Hurricane is Born - The Science Of Superstorms
A fascinating look at how a little girl walking in the sand of the African desert could cause a hurricane 4000 miles away in the USA. Some scenes may be too unsettling for very young children. Suitable for older elementary, middle school, and high school students.
What are Hurricanes?
The narrator discusses hurricanes in a clear terms. The narration is accompanied by appropriate still images.
How Hurricanes are born from NASA
A downloadable video that shows how hurricanes are born by following the birth of Isabel from Africa to the United States. Needs some vocabulary to be fully understood. Also needs a large class map to help follow the video. Good explanation of how warm and cold ocean waters impact hurricanes. Effective video best downloaded.
Hurricane Katrina: Extreme Video
Storm Chaser Mike Theiss and Jim Reed takes you up close and personal with Hurricane Katrina. Note the sound and the alarms going off. Shows both inside and outside. Gets the students attention and shows the powerful nature of weather. Taken from televison news show. The two men are interviewed as well (Running Time 4:56).Â
Slideshow About Katrina Damage on the Mississippi Gulf Coast
These before and after photos are breathtaking in their views of what a hurricane can do to even the most stout structures. There is also a slide that shows the force of the wind as it moved through the area. These could be used in conjunction with a Google Earth photo showing the area's landforms. Students can use these to gain an understanding of elevation as well as a lesson on hurricanes and hurricane preparation.
