Begin the lesson by introducing the concept of the solar system and its components. Discuss the Sun as the central star and its gravitational pull on celestial bodies.
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The Solar System
Learning Objectives
- Understand the concept of a satellite and identify different types of satellites in our solar system.
- Identify and describe the characteristics of the inner planets in terms of composition, size, and temperature.
- Explain the structure of the solar system, including the role of the Sun's gravitational pull on celestial bodies.
- Distinguish between the outer planets and categorize them as gas giants and ice giants based on their composition and size.
Introduction and Hook
Engage students with the video 'The Solar System' to provide a clear overview of the solar system's structure and the various objects within it.
Direct Instruction
Explain the characteristics of the inner planets, focusing on their composition, size, and temperature. Highlight the differences between terrestrial and gas giants.
Use the video 'The Eight Planets' to support understanding of the differences between the inner and outer planets.
Guided Exploration
Facilitate a discussion on the concept of satellites, including natural and man-made examples. Encourage students to identify different types of satellites in our solar system.
Watch the video 'Our Eight Planets' to explore the key characteristics of each planet, enhancing students' understanding of their unique features.
Hands-On Activity
Engage students in a hands-on activity where they classify planets as terrestrial or gas/ice giants based on their characteristics.
Use the 'Inner Planets Fact Sheet' assessment to have students research and fill in details about the inner planets, reinforcing their learning.
Independent Practice
Assign students to research one outer planet and present their findings, focusing on its composition, size, and unique features.
Provide the 'Outer Planets Fact Sheet' for students to independently gather and record scientific data about the outer planets.
Check for Understanding
Conduct a class discussion to review the differences between inner and outer planets, ensuring students can categorize them correctly.
Use the 'Space' assessment to test students' comprehension of the solar system and its components.
Review and Reflection
Encourage students to reflect on what they have learned about the solar system and how the Sun's gravitational pull affects celestial bodies.
Facilitate a class discussion to share insights and address any lingering questions about the lesson content.
Assessment and Extension
Administer the 'Review – Space' assessment to evaluate students' understanding of key space science concepts.
Try the Quiz
For further exploration, encourage students to research and present on a specific NASA space mission, using the 'NASA Space Missions Research Project 1' assessment.
