Space, The Final Frontier

Summary

The goal of this lesson is to educate the students on different aspects of space. This includes constellations and planets as one area of study. We will also explore space travel and the affects of gravity.

Materials

The students will need access to a computer in order to do Star Child.

Background for Teachers

Teachers should check to see if all websites are active. Students will rotate in small groups throughout each center, as provided by the teacher.

Student Prior Knowledge

Students should have a basic understanding of the universe and gravity.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to speak intelligently about aspects of space by being able to compare and contrast the Earth and moon and describe the effects of gravity. Students will also gain knowledge about space travel.

Instructional Procedures

Technology Station In this station the students will visit the sun, the moon, and the planets. They will complete a worksheet using a www.activity website.

Math exploration station At this station, students will use math equations to find out how much they will weigh in space and on the moon.

Creative Arts station Station Students will need to listen to the sound of Saturn audio clip, and then decide how they would interpret and use their body to dance and act them out.

Science Station Students will perform a science experiment showing how the universe expands over time.

Strategies for Diverse Learners

The lesson plan can be adapted by expanding or lessening instruction as needed for students. The activity on the computer requires reading. When grouping the students have a student who is able to read paired with a student who struggles with reading.

Extensions

This lesson could include the following activities: 1)Have the students make a model of the earth and moon. Then have them describe the shape of both. 2) The students could list the differences in the physical appearance of the earth and moon as viewed by space. 3)The students could describe the motions of the earth. 4) Make a chart to show that the moon orbits earth approximately every 28 days.

Assessment Plan

Students will be assessed based on a rubric to determine their understanding of space. See attached rubric.