Activity Overview
The Scientific Revolution offered society a number of alternative theories to some big questions. These theories of the tackled questions ranging from, ”How does the universe work?” and “What is the essential material that all things are made of?” to “How does the human body function?”
Students will organize the concepts of the Scientific Revolution into three categories on the grid layout: Universe, Body, and Material World. The storyboard should answer these questions:
- What new theories were developed regarding the functioning of the human body?
- What new theories were developed regarding man’s place in the universe?
- What new theories were developed regarding the functioning of the natural world?
Extended Activity
Students can choose which innovation or theory they feel had the biggest long-term impact. Then, they can research how the theory/innovation evolved and defend their choice by creating a storyboard that illustrates the long-term impact.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that analyzes the new scientific views that came out of the Scientific Revolution and sort them into three categories: Universe, Body, and Material World.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the first row, describe at least two examples of the new theories that pertained to the Universe.
- In the second and third rows, do the same for Body and Material World.
- Create illustrations for each example using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
The Scientific Revolution offered society a number of alternative theories to some big questions. These theories of the tackled questions ranging from, ”How does the universe work?” and “What is the essential material that all things are made of?” to “How does the human body function?”
Students will organize the concepts of the Scientific Revolution into three categories on the grid layout: Universe, Body, and Material World. The storyboard should answer these questions:
- What new theories were developed regarding the functioning of the human body?
- What new theories were developed regarding man’s place in the universe?
- What new theories were developed regarding the functioning of the natural world?
Extended Activity
Students can choose which innovation or theory they feel had the biggest long-term impact. Then, they can research how the theory/innovation evolved and defend their choice by creating a storyboard that illustrates the long-term impact.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that analyzes the new scientific views that came out of the Scientific Revolution and sort them into three categories: Universe, Body, and Material World.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the first row, describe at least two examples of the new theories that pertained to the Universe.
- In the second and third rows, do the same for Body and Material World.
- Create illustrations for each example using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Before and After: Scientific Revolution Changed Views
Engage Students with a Scientific Revolution Timeline Activity
Use a timeline to help students visualize key events and breakthroughs of the Scientific Revolution. Timelines make it easier for students to see cause, effect, and progression of ideas over time.
Select and display major Scientific Revolution milestones
Pick 5–8 key discoveries or inventions (like Copernicus’ heliocentric theory or Newton’s laws) and write each one on a card or sticky note. Post them across the board or wall in chronological order. This helps students grasp the order of scientific progress.
Invite students to add details and illustrations
Have students research and add 1–2 sentences describing each event, plus a quick drawing or printed image. Including student-created visuals deepens engagement and understanding.
Facilitate a timeline walk and discussion
Guide students as they review the timeline together. Ask questions about how each discovery changed what people believed about the universe, body, or material world. Encourage students to make connections between milestones.
Reflect on how scientific ideas build over time
Lead a short reflection or exit ticket: Have students write or discuss how new theories built on or challenged earlier ideas. This reinforces the concept of scientific progress and ongoing inquiry.
Frequently Asked Questions about Before and After: Scientific Revolution Changed Views
What were the major changes in scientific thinking during the Scientific Revolution?
The Scientific Revolution brought a shift from traditional beliefs to evidence-based science. Thinkers like Copernicus, Galileo, and Newton introduced new theories about the universe, human body, and natural world, emphasizing observation, experimentation, and logic over old authorities.
How did the Scientific Revolution change views about the universe?
The Scientific Revolution replaced the Earth-centered (geocentric) view with the heliocentric model, showing that the Sun is at the center of the solar system. Discoveries by astronomers like Copernicus and Galileo challenged previous ideas about mankind's place in the cosmos.
What new theories about the human body emerged during the Scientific Revolution?
Scientists such as Andreas Vesalius and William Harvey used direct observation and dissection to understand human anatomy and physiology, discovering how the heart pumps blood and correcting earlier misconceptions from ancient sources.
How can students organize and illustrate the key concepts of the Scientific Revolution in a classroom activity?
Students can create a storyboard chart with three categories: Universe, Body, and Material World. They describe at least two new theories for each, add illustrations, and explain the impact of these scientific changes.
What is a simple classroom activity to help students understand the impact of Scientific Revolution theories?
Ask students to research a major innovation or theory from the Scientific Revolution, create a storyboard explaining its long-term impact, and present their findings. This encourages analysis, creativity, and deeper understanding of science history.
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