Astronomy

Solar eclipses occur when the Moon comes between the Sun and Earth. During a new moon, the Moon blocks the Sun’s rays. This phenomenon can only be viewed by people…

Lunar eclipses occur when the Earth comes between the Sun and Moon. During a full moon, the Earth’s shadow falls over the Moon. This phenomenon can be viewed from anywhere…

Try teaching astronomy with space science activities that help kids conceptualize size, distance, motion, and composition of objects inside and outside of our solar system. When kids study natural phenomena…

Build a solar system model! Why? First, it helps kids understand relative sizes, distances, and motion of nearby objects in space. Second, they explore the complex relationships between the Sun,…

Teach solar system objects in a different way. Instead of the standard planets research project, try something new! In this set of activities, kids learn about the Sun, planets, moons,…

Find evidence of the revolution of the Earth around the Sun in everyday things. First, study the length and direction of shadows. Second, analyze patterns of day and night. Finally,…

What causes seasons? The Earth rotates on its axis at a 23.5º angle from the Sun. When the Sun’s rays are more direct, it is warmer. Therefore, changes in the…

Ask kids to explore patterns of day and night with elapsed time. This sharpens an important math skill. What’s more? They’ll find evidence of Earth’s rotation and orbit around the…

Constellations in the zodiac provide a great opportunity for teaching about the seasonal appearance of stars. Furthermore, they provide insight to the Earth’s revolution around the Sun. Add these activities…

Teaching about brightness of the Sun and stars? Use these simple activities to explain apparent magnitude. Fortunately, all you need is a flashlight! (more…)