I can research and compare the different planets in the solar system.
Children learn about 3 different planet classifications - terrestrial, gas giant, and ice giant. They carry out a networking activity where each child has a sheet containing incomplete information and they find out the missing data from their classmates. They discuss various ways of comparing, grouping and ordering the planets.
I can explain how the Earth and the other planets in the solar system move.
Children cut out pictures of the Sun and the eight major planets of the solar system and use them to complete a diagram by placing them in order of distance from the Sun.
I can explain how the Moon moves.
Children learn how the Moon moves around the Earth. They learn about theories of the Moon's formation, and that it has been explored. Children create an information text answering the questions 'How do the Earth and Moon move?', 'How was the Moon formed?', and 'Has the Moon been explored?', and complete a diagram showing the movement of the Earth and Moon.
I can explain how the Moon's appearance appears to change when viewed from Earth.
Children complete a diagram showing the eight phases of the Moon and why the Moon's appearance seems to change.
I can explain how the solar system was formed.
Children complete an information text explaining the latest model of the origins of the solar system.
I can compare the sizes of the planets in the solar system.
Children look at diagrams of the planets which are in proportion to one another. They use an 'Earth ruler' to measure the diameter of the planets in Earth diameters in order to compare them to the Earth. They then use a ruler marked in cm to measure the diameter, before using a formula to calculate their true size. They record their data in a table and look for patterns. Children can use the planet diagrams to make a display.
I can explain how day and night are caused.
Using a split pin, children create a moving model showing how the rotation of the Earth causes day and night. They move their model through a day and night cycle, using speech bubbles to explain what they would experience at each stage of the cycle.
I can make a sundial and explain how it works.
Using a template, children cut out and assemble their own sundial. They carefully attach the gnomon (shadow caster). On a sunny, rain and wind-free day, children calibrate their sundial by fixing it in position and marking where the shadow of the gnomon falls at 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Children predict where the 4pm shadow line would fall.