Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will understand how the Earth's rotation causes sunrise and sunset, how the tilt of the Earth creates seasons, and the relationship between the Earth and the Sun.

Materials and Prep

• Pen and paper
• Coloring materials
• Access to a window or outdoor space
• No prior knowledge needed

Activities

• Sunrise and Sunset Observation: Find a comfortable spot near a window or outside. Observe the sky during sunrise and sunset. Draw or write about what you see.
• Earth's Rotation Demonstration: Use a globe or a ball to represent the Earth. Slowly rotate the globe while explaining how this movement causes the sun to appear to rise and set.
• Seasons Wheel: Create a seasons wheel by dividing a circle into four sections and coloring each section to represent a season. Discuss how the tilt of the Earth causes different parts of the Earth to receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year.

Talking Points

• Sunrise and Sunset: "When we see the sun rising in the morning, it's because the Earth is turning to face the Sun. And when the sun sets in the evening, it's because the Earth is turning away from the Sun."
• Seasons: "The Earth is tilted on its axis, like a spinning top. This tilt is why we have different seasons. When your part of the Earth is tilted towards the Sun, it's summer. When it's tilted away, it's winter."
• Earth and Sun Relationship: "The Sun is a star that gives us light and heat. We need the Sun for plants to grow, for warmth, and for daytime. The Earth moves around the Sun, and this journey takes one year to complete."