Earth's rotation Lesson Plans

Students explain that it is the tilt of earth's axis that causes the seasons. They engage in a variety of activities, both teacher-led and on the computer, which enable them to further explain how the Earth's axis affects the seasons.

Third graders model how the Earth rotates around the Sun. In this lesson on the solar system, 3rd graders explore the idea that the Sun and stars are not moving - we are. Students are given materials to help them demonstrate for the class how the Earth rotates around the Sun.

Young scholars discover that it is the tilt of the earth's axis that results in the seasons. They clarify common misconceptions about the earth's orbit around the sun.

Fourth graders explore space science by participating in a visual activity. In this sun lesson plan, 4th graders discuss the relationship between the moon, sun and earth as well as the axis they spin on. Students utilize a golf ball, styrofoam ball, pencil and flashlight to conduct an earth rotation activity.

Students explore the effect of the earths rotation and its relationship to the suns position and the effect that the longer and shorter amount of daylight has on a pumpkin plant which they have planted.

Young scholars investigate Earth and its resources. In this Earth, space, and nature lesson plan, students collaborate to design presentations on the Earth, its cycles, and how humans have impacted the planet. Images, diagrams, and background information on Earth are included.

Students construct an Earth/Sun model of planet revolution that incorporates the orbital geometry concepts. They record Earth/Sun relative distance and Sun nadir observations acquired from model simulation of Earth's relative position and geometry at each solstice and equinox.

Sixth graders investigate the relationship between the tilt of the Earth's axis and the seasons. In this earth science activity, 6th graders sing the song "Why Do We Have Seasons" and use simulate the Earth's tilt by using their bodies.

Students explore the Earth and its rotation. Volunteers model the sun-Earth system to demonstrate that the Earth rotates around the sun. In groups, students simulate "traveling" around the sun and discuss when it is night and day.

Students discover that the Earth rotates on its axis in a cyclical fashion. They examine how this rotation results in day and night.