Classifying Objects in the Solar System
Students are given images taken of space objects from Earth to help them recognize how difficult it is to tell how big or far away something is based on our view from Earth’s surface. Students are then shown images that have been taken with advanced technologies so they can analyze data in order to categorize the different objects found in our Solar System and beyond. Students are also encouraged to make observations of celestial bodies and learn to identify different kinds of space objects (e.g., planets, stars, asteroids, comets, galaxies, and moons) by such features as apparent size, brightness, and visual appearance.
Details at a Glance
- 1-2 Days | 1-2 ~50 minute class periods
- 1 Activity
- Accommodates unlimited classes, each with 6 groups of 4 students
- Meets our criteria for supporting literacy
- All materials are non-consumable
- Includes digital resources
- Developed in partnership with SEPUP
Scientific Concepts
•The Sun, Earth and other planets, moons, and smaller objects make up the Solar System.
•Space objects are grouped into categories by such characteristics as size, composition, and motion in space.
•One way to gather data is through direct observations. Accurate and complete observations are important for making conclusions about the natural world.
Guides & Student Sheets
Our kits and modules provide you with everything you need so you can open, review, and teach the material confidently the next day.
- Comprehensive Teacher Guide with background information, detailed instruction, example data and answers
- Student Sheets with age appropriate background information, full procedure(s), and analysis items
- Materials necessary for the investigation (beyond common classroom items)
- Safety Data Sheets
Kit Components
- 8 Space Object Cards, set of 6
- Downloadable pdfs of student and teacher literature