Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand basic concepts of Earth Science through a fun Batman-themed activity.

Materials and Prep

• Black construction paper
• Yellow construction paper
• Scissors
• Glue
• Markers or crayons
• Printouts of Batman symbols (optional)

Prior knowledge required: Basic understanding of colors and shapes.

Activities

1. Create a Batman Symbol

Using the black construction paper, cut out a large bat shape. Then, cut out a smaller bat shape from the yellow construction paper. Glue the smaller bat shape onto the larger one to create a Batman symbol. Feel free to use markers or crayons to add additional details.

2. Explore Shadows

Take your Batman symbol and go outside on a sunny day. Hold the symbol up in front of the sun and observe the shadow it creates. Move the symbol closer or farther away from the ground and notice how the size of the shadow changes. Discuss how shadows are formed by blocking light.

3. Discover Day and Night

Explain to your student that Batman fights crime during the night. Discuss how the Earth rotates, causing day and night. Use a globe or a round object to demonstrate how the Earth spins on its axis, causing different parts of the Earth to face towards or away from the Sun.

Preschool Grade Talking Points

• "Batman is a superhero who helps keep the city safe from bad guys!"
• "We can make our own Batman symbol using black and yellow paper."
• "When we hold our Batman symbol in front of the sun, it makes a shadow on the ground."
• "The Earth spins around, and that's why we have day and night. When it's daytime, Batman rests, and when it's nighttime, he goes out to fight crime!"