Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to construct a mechanical model of the solar system and understand the relative sizes and distances of the planets.
Materials and Prep
Materials:
- Cardboard
- String
- Scissors
- Markers
- Glue
- Styrofoam balls (different sizes)
- Ruler
Prep:
- Research the relative sizes and distances of the planets in our solar system.
- Prepare a large piece of cardboard for the model.
Activities
- Planetary Research: Research the sizes and distances of the planets in our solar system to accurately represent them in your model.
- Model Construction: Use the materials provided to construct a mechanical model of the solar system, ensuring the correct positioning and relative sizes of the planets.
- Solar System Demonstration: Once your model is complete, demonstrate how the planets orbit the sun and explain the concept of orbits and rotation.
Talking Points
- The Solar System: "The solar system is made up of the sun and all the planets, moons, asteroids, and comets that orbit around it."
- Relative Sizes: "The planets in our solar system vary greatly in size, with Jupiter being the largest and Mercury being the smallest."
- Distances Between Planets: "The distances between planets in our solar system are vast, with each planet orbiting the sun at a different distance."
- Orbits and Rotation: "Planets orbit the sun in an elliptical path, and they also rotate on their own axes. This movement creates day and night on each planet."