Subject: Science - Earth, Sun and Moon

Children will learn about the shapes and relative sizes of the Earth, Sun and Moon. Using models they will learn how the three bodies move relative to each other and how these movements relate to night and day

Possible Teaching Activities:-

• Find out what the children know:
  Is the Earth flat? Which is the biggest? Which body orbits which? How long does it take for each orbit.
  
  
• Following discussion pupils view Guardians Web Site and then through to NASA for satellite images- discuss space history-i.e. last 50 years.
  
  
• Use playground or large hall to complete practical explanation of what orbits what and time spans. Use different size spheres to help understanding of relative sizes of Earth, Sun and Moon.
  
  
• Discuss how Sun appears to move across our sky. Extend to recording shadows-Health & Safety- do not allow children to look directly at Sun.
  
  
• Extend to seasonal changes link to tilt of Earth.
  
  
• Phases of Moon get children to record phases they see each week compile database to show cycle of phases for 28 days.
  
  
• Extend to studying planets in our solar system- use Guardians Web Site especially Mars explorer Section.