Title: Exploring the Solar System

Grade Level: 4th Grade

Subject: Science

Duration: 4 weeks

Unit Overview: In this unit, students will explore the solar system and learn about the different planets, their characteristics, and their positions in relation to the Sun. They will also learn about the Earth’s moon and its phases. Through hands-on activities, experiments, and research, students will develop a deeper understanding of the solar system and its components.

Unit Objectives: 1. Identify and describe the eight planets in the solar system. 2. Understand the characteristics of each planet, including size, distance from the Sun, and composition. 3. Explain the concept of orbits and the positions of planets in relation to the Sun. 4. Investigate the Earth’s moon and its phases. 5. Develop research and presentation skills through individual or group projects.

Week 1: Introduction to the Solar System - Introduce the solar system and its components. - Discuss the Sun as the center of the solar system. - Introduce the eight planets and their names. - Engage students in a class discussion about what they already know about the solar system. - Assign a research project on one of the planets.

Week 2: Exploring the Planets - Review the research projects on the planets. - Present the research findings to the class. - Discuss the characteristics of each planet, including size, distance from the Sun, and composition. - Engage students in hands-on activities to demonstrate the differences in size and distance between the planets. - Conduct experiments to explore the composition of different planets.

Week 3: Orbits and Positions - Introduce the concept of orbits and how planets move around the Sun. - Discuss the positions of planets in relation to the Sun. - Engage students in a hands-on activity to demonstrate the concept of orbits. - Use models or diagrams to explain the positions of planets at different times.

Week 4: Earth’s Moon - Introduce the Earth’s moon and its importance. - Discuss the phases of the moon and their causes. - Engage students in a hands-on activity to observe and record the phases of the moon. - Conduct experiments to explore the effects of the moon’s gravity.

Assessment: - Research project on one of the planets (individual or group) - Class participation in discussions and activities - Completion of hands-on activities and experiments - Presentation of research findings

Resources: - Books and articles about the solar system and planets - Videos and documentaries about the solar system - Models or diagrams of the solar system and orbits - Moon phase charts or calendars - Materials for hands-on activities and experiments (e.g., balloons, balls, clay, flashlights)