Aim: Why do scientists want to reintroduce Pluto as a planet? Karen Gomez Gregorio Luperon High School kgomez13@schools.nyc.gov

In order to understand the process of Public Policy, we are going to engage in two of the six steps today. We will be looking at it through the lenses of Astronomers and their decisions on reinstating Pluto as a planet

What are the characteristics of a planet and a dwarf planet? Take 10 minutes to research the characteristics of both. Resources to use: Ask an Astronomer Library of Congress International Astronomical Union Planetary Science Institute

What are the implications of this change What are the implications of this change? How will the change impact the world / solar system?

Step 1: Define the Problem You are stepping into the world of Public Policy Analysts. A problem is a condition that some people view as undesirable. There are certain astronomers that consider Pluto and other dwarf planets a real planet.

Step 1: Define the Problem In your groups, complete the worksheet: Defining the social problem (MSWORD) or Defina el problema Resources to Use: Forbes Phys.org

Step 2: Gather Evidence What is the evidence that Pluto is not a true planet? How do we know that scientists are in conflict about the status of Pluto?

Step 2: Gather Evidence In your groups, complete the worksheet: Gathering evidence of the problem (MSWORD) or Reuna las evidencias

Should Pluto be reinstated as a planet? What are your thoughts?