Earth and Space

Knowledge and Skills Statement

Earth and space. The student describes the characteristics of the universe and the relative scale of its components.
Glossary terms and definitions are consistent across kindergarten through high school in the TEKS Guide. The definitions are intended to give educators a common understanding of the terms regardless of what grade level they teach. Glossary definitions are not intended for use with students.

a galaxy that has a generally elliptical shape and that has no apparent internal structure or spiral arms

systems of stars and interstellar matter that make up the universe

a galaxy that does not have a distinct regular shape

the spiral-shaped galaxy of which the Sun and Earth's Solar System are located and contain the myriads of stars that create the light of the Milky Way

system consisting of the Sun and a collection of objects of varying sizes and conditions—including planets and their moons—that are held in orbit around the Sun by its gravitational pull on them

a galaxy exhibiting a central nucleus or barred structure from which extend curved arms of higher luminosity

Research

Riddle, Bob. “The New Milky Way Galaxy.” Science Scope 32, no. 6 (2009):72–74. http://www.jstor.org/stable/43183838

Summary:  This article provides detailed information on the three types of galaxies (spiral, elliptical, and irregular) and details on subcategories within the three types. Information about the Milky Way galaxy is also provided.