Big Brain Shows Lesson Plan Episode 111 • September 9, 2026

Moon Moves, Ocean Clues, and a Toad That Feels With Its Fingers

Main Lesson Takeaway

"Scientists learn by observing patterns carefully, whether they are watching the sky, measuring the ocean, or studying how animals sense their surroundings."

The Hook (Pre-Watch)

Ask the class before watching:

"What is one tool or body part you use to notice the world around you?"

Vocabulary Focus

occultation

An event when one object in space appears to cover another object from our point of view.

The Moon passing in front of Jupiter is called an occultation.

sea level

The average height of the ocean’s surface.

Scientists study sea level to understand changes near beaches, harbors, islands, wetlands, and coastal cities.

satellite

A tool in space that can observe Earth and collect information.

A satellite can help scientists measure ocean height and track changes over time.

adaptation

A body feature or behavior that helps a living thing survive in its environment.

The Surinam toad’s sensitive fingertips are an adaptation for finding food in cloudy water.

Discussion & Reflection

Have students answer these questions after watching the episode.

1
Why can the Moon look like it is covering Jupiter even though Jupiter is much farther away?
2
What tools can scientists use to study the ocean from both museums and space?