4-7
ASTRONOMY
ACTIVITIESEveryday, the sun appears to rise somewhere along the eastern horizon, moves higher until about noon, and then moves lower until it appears to set somewhere along the western horizon. In autumn, the daylight period grows gradually shorter, becoming shortest about the time of winter solstice (December 22). Then it grows longer, becoming longest about the time of the summer solstice (June 21). Seasons are caused by the tilt of the earth's axis.
Observe and log information about sunrise/sunset.
Telecommunicate data to partner schools.
Measure shadows; chart and compare data.
The seasonal variations in the path of the sun through the sky are a consequence of the revolution of the earth around the sun. If we start at a given place on the earth, we see the daily path of the sun vary through the seasons. The variation is greater at higher latitudes near the poles and smaller at lower latitudes near the equator.
Use an analemma to observe the regularity of the sun's pattern of movement over a year.
Use an analemma to observe the regularity of the sun's pattern of movement over a year.
Most objects we see in the sky are separated from one another by vast, seemingly empty space.
Build a scale model of the solar system.
Research the objects of the solar system and report to the class during a solar system "field trip."
When a hemisphere of the earth is tilted toward the sun, it is summer in that hemisphere. When it is tilted away from the sun, it is winter.
Experiment with the difference in temperature of slanting vs. direct light rays.
Demonstrate how the earth's tilt causes the seasons.
All living things follow the patterns of various cycles and cyclical rhythms. Organisms can tolerate some variation in the things they need in order to survive, but they do best under certain conditions. Information about the environment is collected by all organisms which helps them to adapt to local or temporary conditions.
Observe the life cycle of a monarch butterfly.
Track the seasonal migration patterns of the monarch.
Ancient cultures attempted to understand the world in which they lived by gathering data and creating myths to explain physical phenomena, such as the sun, seasonal changes, etc.
Research and study ancient Aztec relics. (Sun Stone)
Design a Sun God Mask.
Write original myths/poems to accompany the mask.
A solar eclipse occurs when the shadow of the moon blocks the sun's rays on some part of the earth.
Model an eclipse using small objects to discover the cause.
Write/draw about and explain the occurrence of a solar eclipse.