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Modeling Relationship of Sun and Earth

Modeling Relationship of Sun and Earth

TEKS Objective

The student is expected to construct models that demonstrate the relationship of the Sun, Earth, and Moon, including orbits and positions.


Essential Understanding

The student knows that there are recognizable patterns in the natural world and among objects in the sky.

Science Background

23.5 Degrees: BioEd Online (video) - Explains the seasonal patterns caused by the motion of Earth around the Sun.

23.5 Degrees
BioEd Online, www.bioedonline.org

Earth Fact Sheet: National Space Science Data Center (website) - Detailed data, presented in table form, of Earth’s physical properties, atmosphere, orbit and rotation.

Earth Fact Sheet
National Space Science Data Center, nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov

The Earth’s Orbit: Windows to the Universe (website) - Earth’s orbit and orbital velocity are described, and concepts like ecliptic and axial tilt are explained.

The Earth’s Orbit
Windows to the Universe, www.windows2universe.org

Signature Lesson

Motion of the Sun and Earth: Project FIRST (website) - Students construct and participate in a playground model that demonstrates the relationship between the Sun and Earth.

Motion of the Sun and Earth
Project FIRST, Eye on the Sky, www.eyeonthesky.org

Supporting Lessons

Sun As A Star: NASA (website) - Downloadable collection of activities from NASA and the American Museum of Natural History about the properties and benefits of the Sun.

Sun As A Star
NASA, www.nasa.gov

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