1. Aim: Why do scientists want to reintroduce Pluto as a planet?
Karen Gomez
Gregorio Luperon High School

2. 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

3. 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

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

5. 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.

6. 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

7. 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?

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

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