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, planets, moons, asteroids, meteoroids, and comets. Then they can critique other models. Finally, when kids explore multiple models, misconceptions are less likely.
Posts on this website follow a teaching journey and are written in story form.
Constructing a Solar System Model
Our favorite fourth grade teacher opened her closet. Then she grabbed a roll of adding machine. “Hey,” she said to her teaching partner, “our kids finished comparing and contrasting nearby objects in space. Time to build a solar system model,” she said to her teaching partner. A small smile pulled at the corners of her mouth. Yes, she loved teaching space science activities.
“First, our kiddos will scale the diameter. As you can see on the table, they’ll simply divide by 50,000. They can use a calculator for that. Then they’ll scale the distance. To do that, they’ll divide by 5,000,000.
“Next, they’ll measure a variety of round objects to see which best represents each planet.” Ms. Sneed plopped a plastic bag on the table. As she pulled out the materials, she named each. Lifesavers – I bought two sizes for the biggest planets. Poppy seeds. Celery seeds. Mustard seeds. Peppercorns. Pennies. Allspice. Additionally, I have a few in my cabinet.
“Finally, they’ll measure, glue, and label the items on a strip of this adding machine tape. I love the way they have to calculate, compare sizes, and measure. Kids integrate math and science.”
Looking for More
“Hmm,” said Mr. Frank. “Actually, last year, this solar system model didn’t do the trick for me. My students only partially understood our closest neighbors in space.”
“What? This is one of my favorite space science activities.”
“I’m not saying that I don’t want to do it,” her teammate explained. “This activity provides a great introduction to relative sizes and distances. But I think our kids need more.”
Acting Out a Solar System Model
Mr. Frank continued. “For example, what about relative motion?”
Ms. Sneed looked thoughtful. “Good point.”
“After the adding machine tape activity, I’d like to try a solar system model in which kids act it out.”
He pulled out a table with distance from the Sun, length of year, and speed. “Instead of something prescribed, I’d like kids to come up with their own skit. Sure, it will be tough for them. But that will show them how complex the system is.”
“I like it,” said Ms. Sneed. “I’m adding it to my lesson plans as we speak.”
Developing a New Solar System Model
“After that,” Mr. Frank continued, “I’d like students to design their own solar system model. You know, something new that better illustrates size, distance, motion, and even additional objects. As you can see, our models only include planets and the Sun.”
“Great idea!” Ms. Sneed exclaimed. “That about wraps it up.”
Analyzing Other Models
“Not so fast,” said Mr. Frank.
“What? More?”
Mr. Frank grinned. “As a matter of fact, yes. After all of this, I’d like my students to think critically about what they see.” He pulled out four pictures and laid them on the table. “When they look at each solar system model,” he said, “they can analyze how to improve it.”
Now Ms. Sneed was grinning. “Wow. I was satisfied with my answering machine tape model. Who knew that this solar system model activity could be so much more!”
Enjoy Teaching
Let’s face it: reading about a solar system model is boring. Instead, engage students through meaningful space science activities. Scaffold their understanding so they truly understand. They’ll love it. And you’ll enjoy teaching even more!
