Space Science and Astronomy Lesson Plans

Students identify celestial objects from descriptions and definitions. They perform mathematical function operations and graphing. They become near-Earth object hunters in a math and space science review game. Students review the various celestial objects in space.

Students explore space science by conducting an observation of the sky outside of class. In this astronomy instructional activity, students define specific star formations and objects that make up our solar system and sky. Students conduct a class observation on a specific evening in order to identify star patterns they have learned about.

Eighth graders describe how the Earth's position causes seasonal changes. In this astronomy lesson, 8th graders explain how solar radiation varies depending on the season. They create a collage or poster on each of the Earth's four seasons.

Learners compare and contrast Earth and Saturn's planet features. In this space science lesson, students draw a diagram of the solar system and identify the different components. They complete a Saturn system scavenger hunt and Venn diagram after the activity.

Students simulate life in space aboard the space shuttle. In this space exploration lesson, students work in small groups to model life aboard the space shuttle. Each student is given a job, conducts Internet research on space, and models activities that astronauts would do in space.

Students explore the major events that formed our universe and create a timeline.  In this space science timeline lesson plan, students investigate major events in groups and illustrate their event.  Students post their illustrations in a timeline.

Students investigate astronomy by identifying celestial formations. For this space science lesson, students view a video titled "Stargazing" and read astronomy related textbooks. Students write journal entries while role playing as astronauts and using space science vocabulary terms.

Students research about the life cycle of a star. In this space science lesson, students discuss how its mass determines its evolution. They create a poster and report findings in class.

Sixth graders discover the importance of the Moon to our planet and the different cycles it goes through.  In this space science instructional activity, 6th graders utilize the Internet to investigate one phase of the moon and the view we have from Earth.  Students create a presentation for their classmates using a flashlight and ball to demonstrate one phase of the moon.

Students study the unique environment of the moon and Mars. In this space science lesson, students design a city located in the outer space. They create a computer aided design, models or drawings of their cities and share them with the class.