Chapter 9: Scientific Revolution "Nicolaus Copernicus"

Introduction
Students have read that Nicolaus Copernicus was at the forefront of the scientific revolution. He became convinced that the earth was round and that it rotated on its axis as it revolved around the sun. Because his ideas were revolutionary and even dangerous, Copernicus did not publish his ideas until shortly before his death.

Lesson Description
Students will go to the Nicolaus Copernicus Web site. They will then answer four questions about what they have read. Students are then asked to write an alternative theory about how one aspect of the earth functions.

Instructional Objectives
1. Students will learn more about Copernicus's life.
2. Students will learn more about the publication of Copernicus's theory.

Student Web Activity Answers
1. On the day he died.
2. He received a double doctorate in medicine and law and continued his astronomical research and medical practice in addition to his clerical duties.
3. Mathematicians and astronomers from around Europe came to him to learn about his theory.
4. Students' responses will vary but should take into account the revolutionary nature of the ideas and the dangers to him if authorities had sought to punish him.

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