EXPLORING SPACE

Grade Level: Kindergarten Subject: Science Prepared By: W. Peterson/M. Robinson/A. Walton

It is important for students to understand what is in our Solar System. The Students need

to know that there are other things besides the Earth, Sun and Moon in the solar sky.

The students will learn about the other eight planets and objects like stars.

Education Standards Addressed: Earth &Space

TEKS (K.8) The student knows that there are recognizable

patterns in the natural world and among objects in the sky.

Teacher Input/Modeling Student Outcome

Objectives

Exploring the planets.

Distinguishing rotation and revolution of

planets

Become familiar with the planets of the

Solar System.

Demonstrate the rotation and revolution of

planets

Materials Needed

flashlights

planet posters

Book on Space

Vocabulary

Props Anticipatory Set Focus

The Solar System is part of the Universe. It

is composed of the Sun, moon, stars and

planets. Read story to provide a visual of

the Solar System.

Ask probing questions: What is in the sky

during the day/night?

Is there something on the other side of the

sky?

Can we get to outer space in a……..?

Who goes to space?

Response from students, students should be

able to discuss and apply real-life

experiences to answer questions.

Lesson/Check for

Understanding

Teacher will formulate leading questions

about the Sun and planets in the Solar

System.

Who can show me where the Sun is? Is it

hot or cold? Who can tell me about their

favorite planet? What does it look like?

Students will be able to discriminate or

differentiate the planets and components of

the Solar System.

Other Resources (e.g. Web, books, etc.)

No place Like Space –

Dr. Seuss

Activity

Students take on the role of the planet.

Demonstrate the astronomical meaning of

revolve and rotate to the students.

Teacher reduces classroom light. 4 students stand

back to back and shine the flashlights outwards.

These students are the “Sun”. The remaining

students slowly revolve around the “Sun”. They

are “planets”. Have the “planets” rotate by

spinning as they revolve around the Sun.

Closure Teacher will restate the objective.

Summarize and review main points of the

lesson.

Students will demonstrate a basic

understanding of the components in the

Solar System.

Additional Notes

Homework Provide students with templates to create a

Solar System Journal

Create by a Solar System Journal and read over with parents.

Assessment Teacher will observe students ability to

accurately answer questions and apply

information. Ask oral questions to assess

student knowledge.

Students will have a foundational understanding of the Solar System.