Thank you for supporting Discover the Universe by writing a blog for us!

 

There are many different astronomy and education topics that can be covered, but it’s important to remember who your audience is. Approximately 98% of all visits to the Discover the Universe website are by teachers and educators who do not have a background in astronomy! Therefore, it’s important to keep technical jargon out of your blog where possible, and explain concepts clearly and simply.

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Below you will find our guidelines to adhere to, as well as some information and tips which might be helpful. Please don’t hesitate to contact Lindsay Mann, Communications Coordinator, with any questions!

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Guidelines:

• Your article should be 500-1000 words long

• We need at least 1 visual component, but you can send up to 5 (images, videos, graphics)

• If you can submit your blog in both English and French, great! If not, we need time to have it translated. Please respect any deadlines we may give you.

• Lindsay is at your disposal as a sounding board, for feedback, and is the English editor. Don’t hesitate to reach out to her if you would like assistance or if you have questions.

 

Audience:

• Elementary school teachers (typically for grade 6)

• High school teachers (typically grade 9 science)

• Informal educators, such as Guide Guide leaders, camp counsellors, and parents (among others)

 

Writing tips:

• Write in short paragraphs, with short, clear sentences. Be as concise as possible.

• Write in a conversational style; no need to sound too official, the content should feel accessible

• Write in an active voice, in the present tense (inasmuch as is appropriate). If you can end your sentence with “by zombies” then you’re using a passive voice, find another way to say it.

• Find a title that is engaging and will draw the reader in! Even better if you can carry that energy through the first paragraph to hook your audience.

• Don’t forget to include a conclusion where you summarize/repeat the ‘point’ of your article.