The Solar System

By: Julie Gorman

Learning Objectives

Learn the correct order of the planets from the sun

Identify the different temperatures of the planets

Learn that the Sun is a star composed of gases

Essential Question

What does our solar system consist of?

Unit Questions

How many planets are in the solar system?

Which planet is closest to the Sun?

What is the largest planet?

TEKS

§112.14. Science, Grade 3,

(8) Earth and space. The student knows there are recognizable patterns in the natural world and among objects in the sky [in the Sun, Earth, and Moon system] . The student is expected to:

(A) observe, measure, record, and compare day-to-day weather changes in different locations at the same time that include air temperature, wind direction, and precipitation;

(B) describe and illustrate the Sun as a star composed of gases that provides light and heat energy for the water cycle; [and]

(C) construct models that demonstrate the relationship of the Sun, Earth, and Moon, including orbits and positions ; and [.]

(D) identify the planets in Earth's solar system and their position in relation to the Sun.

Group Work Activities

Have groups color the different planets, cut them out, and paste them on a large piece of black paper in the correct order.

Individual Activities

Have each student make a space mobile.

Have each student choose a planet to discuss in front of the class. The students can explain to the class what they have learned about that particular planet.

References

http://ritter.tea.state.tx.us/teks/science/ch112a_as_approved032709.pdf

http://www.proteacher.org/c/65_Solar_System.html