Formation of the solar system Lesson Plans

Students compare and contrast the Sun-centered and the Earth-centered models of the solar system. They list the inner planets in the relative order from the sun. Students describe the theory for the formation of the solar system.

Students investigate the history of astronomy. They use video, class discussion, interactive software and research to determine major discoveries in astronomy and reflect on the discoveries still to be made.

Fourth graders use candy to make a comet. In this lesson, 4th graders examine the role comets have played throughout history, students watch NASA videos about comets and complete the lesson by making an edible model of a comet. This lesson includes several useful web links and a full materials list.

Second graders distinguish the different phases of the moon. In this astronomy lesson plan, 2nd graders study the history of its discovery and myths about its origin. They simulate how the moon's surface is illuminated by the sun.

Students explore the Solar System and examine the characteristics of al the planets. Through research and discussion, they create catalogs of the Solar System's components. Next, students use their findings to create Powerpoint versions of their catalogs. The lesson concludes with students creating travel brochures of a chosen planet.

Students investigate oxidation-reduction reactions involving iron by conducting an experiment in which they expose iron filings to different atmospheric and ocean conditions. They relate the results to the oxidation banding patterns seen in sedimentary rocks and the formation of an oxygen-rich atmosphere on Earth.

Students in a special education classroom are introduced to how the universe and solar system was formed. Using the internet, they research the characteristics of Earth that support human life. In groups, they compare and contrast Earth's characteristics and other planets. To end the lesson, they discuss the possibility of traveling further into the solar system.

Fourth graders are introduced to comets and their characteristics. After watching a video, they trace the path comets follow in the solar system and their frequency. In groups, they create their own edible model of a comet and discuss why scientists are fasinated by comets.

Young scholars determine measurements and distances using trigonometric ratios. In this astronomy lesson students demonstrate the difference between a positive and negative slope using the Pythagorean Theorem.

Students explore how to visually identify asteroids in SDSS images. They are able to explain that stars are so far away that they do not appear to move, even over the course of a human lifespan. Students identify the location of most asteroids as between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter.