Lesson 6: The Scale of the Solar System

 Lesson Plan

Tuning In

• Ask the class what a scale model is. Conduct a brainstorming session where students share their ideas and their responses are written on the board.
• Watch the video This Scale Model of NYC is the Biggest in the World. Afterwards, discuss and define the term ‘scale model’ i.e. a small but exact copy of an object.
• Discuss whether it would be possible to make a scale model of the solar system inside the classroom. As a class, decide on a position for the statement to be investigated: A scale model of the solar system can/cannot be made in the classroom.

Teacher Instruction

• Display the first page of the The Solar System in Our Space Mathematics Investigation on the board. Read through the scenario, the task, the materials and the procedure as a class.
• Provide the students with a copy of the investigation booklet. If measurements are being provided to the students e.g. NASA Planetary Fact Sheet, make these available for the students, otherwise, demonstrate and discuss how and where to research the information. Assist the students to gather the equipment required for the task.

Guided/Independent Learning

• Monitor and support the students as they complete the investigation either independently or in groups. Ensure they are recording their results and completing the worksheet as they progress through the activity.
• After they have completed the investigation and recorded their data, encourage the students to complete the reflection question.

Wrapping Up

• As a class, check the calculations and discuss whether the class’s position on the statement being investigated is correct. Encourage students to share their responses.
• Watch the video The Solar System. Encourage the students to note the relative sizes of the planets and their distance from a sun that measures 1.5 metres in diameter.
• Add the words scale and relative to the Solar System Word Wall.

 Differentiation

Extending Students

• More capable students could be challenged to research the planet diameters and distances from the sun independently.

Supporting Students

• Less capable students could be supported in their learning by allowing them to use digital technologies when performing calculations.

 Assessment Strategies

Suggested Assessment Strategies

• used strategic whole class or individual questioning
• observed student participation during learning activities
• recorded student progress on a checklist
• annotated student work samples
• collected and reviewed student work samples
• facilitated whole class or peer feedback sessions
• encouraged student self-reflection
• administered formal assessment tasks.

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