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This To Scale: The Solar System instructional video also includes:
- To Scale: The Solar System Diameter Worksheet
- Informational Text
- Teacher Reference
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To scale, or not to scale ... that is the question! Show scholars the solar system in correct proportion with a lesson from PBS's Space series for middle school. Two versions of the model-building exercise illustrate the planning process as well as an up-close look at the finished product.
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CCSS:
Adaptable
NGSS:
Designed
Concepts
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
- Extend the lesson by grouping learners and asking them to scale the model down to classroom size
- Assign the background reading for homework to leave more time for discussion and calculations in class
Classroom Considerations
- Preface the lesson with a look at astronomical units to help the class understand that these units are the basis for actual solar system measurements
- Students need computers with Internet access to research other solar system models
Pros
- Both videos are perfect resources for helping pupils wrap their heads around the vastness of our solar system
- The teacher's guide contains printables, background reading, and activities for nailing the lesson's standards
Cons
- None