We read Lord of the Flies in class, and one of the boys in the story suggests making a sundial.  This would be a great time to introduce the astrolabe.  Then, I might utilize the YouTube video provided in this unit because it helps the viewer to understand the context and how astrolabes are used.  After this, I might ask students to create a paper astrolabe, like the one described in this unit.

Following these activities, I would bring in a language arts focus by having students write a simile or metaphor about an astrolabe, making sure the comparison contains objects from different domains.  The student would then explain their comparisons.

Then, I would ask students to brainstorm all of the different ways that they can tell time.  I’d give students some thinking time first, and then they would share with the class.  I would prompt them to determine some more common and some creative ways to tell time.

Finally, I would ask students to explain what an astrolabe can show us about people and technology throughout the ages, a universal theme.