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Lesson 7 Handout

Lesson 7 Rubric

 

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Lesson 7 Standards

 

 

 

 

 

Science

 

Lesson 7

Lesson Title:  Discovering the Planets - Part 1

Synopsis:

Students will explore the planets of our solar system and their characteristics by using internet-based data to research each planet.  Specific websites are listed. They will record their findings on a data sheet and use their information to determine the factors that allow or hinder a planet in supporting life.  This is the first lesson in a series of three and will prepare them for the activities in the following lessons.

Authors: Valerie Ordway and Stefani Langol

Interdisciplinary Pairing: 

  • Primarily Science
  • Secondary subjects include
    • Multimedia
    • Technology
    • Graphic Design (Art)

Objectives:

  • Students will visit listed websites and access information on planets.
  • Students will record valid information on data sheet.
  • Students will determine relevant information for supporting their arguments for whether the planet will or will not support life.
  • Students will build a model of the solar system based on size or distance

Intended Grade Level:

Middle School

Prior Knowledge & Skills: 

Knowledge of internet use and computer skills are recommended.  Students should also understand explanations of theories of the Big Bang, the origin of the universe, the expanding universe, and how our solar system developed.

Equipment: 

  • Computers with access to the Internet
  • Projector with audio capability
  • Projection screen

Duration: 

The introduction and research component of this lesson will take three to four class periods.  The final product, if completed both in class and at home, may take three more classes.

 

Materials:

  • Data sheet
  • Drawing paper
  • Coloring utensils
  • Writing paper

Procedure:

  • Introduce the solar system
  • Hand out assignment sheet listing the websites for students to visit for their research.
  • Hand out data sheet, pointing out the type of information needed to carry out this project and the grading rubric.
  • Have students do the following:

    1) Create two graphs, one showing the relationship of the sizes of the planets to each other, the second graph should reflect each planet’s distance from the sun.  2) Create a model of our solar system showing size of planets to scale.  3) Write a paragraph on each planet detailing the conditions on its surface and tell whether the planet could support life as we know it.  Explain why life can or cannot exist there.

  • Assist students as they work through the website material.
  • Assign homework for completing the project.

Evaluation:

  • Use attached rubric as a guideline for assessing student work.

Links & Resources:

Lesson Extension(s):

  • Students could also design an “alien” life form that is built to exist on specific planets.  In discussing their alien, they need to report on the conditions of each planet.

 

 

 

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