• Gain understanding of the relative size and position of each known planet in their relative position to the sun.
• Gain an understanding of solar system motions to explain time, days, and seasons.
• Observe the shape of the Moon changes from day to day in a cycle that lasts about a month.
• Construct a model or diagram of the solar system.
• Acquire vocabulary associated with astronomical study of the solar system.
• Apply language, math, and social studies skills in the context of scientific investigations.
• Use scientific thinking processes to conduct investigations and build explanations:  observing, communicating, comparing, and organizing.
• Work collaboratively and use tools and scientific techniques to make better observations.
• Understand science safety and follow safe practices during investigations.

Assessments:

• Lab experiments
• Performance assessments
• Reflective journals
• Teacher created assessments
• End of unit projects
• Rubrics
• Checklists
• Homework/Class work
• Teacher observations

Solar
Systems
Upper Moreland
Science
Module

Content:  Earth Science
Develop students’ understanding of the Milky Way solar system.

• The Earth’s seasons, length of day, ocean current is determined by its relative position to the Sun.
• The Sun provides light and heat necessary to maintain the Earth’s temperature.

Internet Links:
pde.state.pa.us/k12/lib/k12/scitech.doc

education-world.com/
standards/national/science/index.shtm

umtsd.org/Science_list

Planned Instruction