Introduction
Good Morning Astronauts,
There has been a terrible disaster! All of the planets that orbit the Sun have spun out of control. The eight planets are out of order. Jupiter moved closer to the Sun. Earth is next to Neptune. Mars has switched places with Uranus. We need your help to move the planets back to their original spots.
Task
Astronauts, it is time to suit up. Your mission is to go into space and place the planets in their correct position from the Sun.
Each team will need to research the eight different planets. You will need to find out the planet's position from the Sun, size, temperature and how many moons they have. Also, include at least three surprising facts. All information will be recorded in your captain’s log.
After you have completed your research, your team will create a guide of where the planets need to be positioned. Each astronaut will need to report their findings.
Process
Are you ready to blast off, Astronauts?
Your team in made up of four students. Assign the following jobs to each member: Captain – this student will lead of your mission.
Flight Plan – this student will keep all astronauts on track during the mission.
Mission Control – this student will guide the team through the web.
Recorder – this student will log all of the research in the captain’s log
Each team will soar through space learning about the different planets. Astronauts will complete a report of their journey at the end of their flight.
Preparation:
Astronauts, you will need to prepare for you flight into space. Watch this video to information about our solar system.
Video:
Take off:
5, 4,3,2,1 BLAST OFF! Your team is now flying through space. Be sure to land on each planet to conduct your research.
Resource:
http://www.astronomy.com/observing/astro-for-kids
Landing:
As you begin to return to Earth, it’s time to test your knowledge Astronauts. See if you are able to find the planet.
Game:
http://spaceplace.nasa.gov/switch-a-roo/en/
Evaluation
Each team will need to create a model of the solar system. Each Astronaut will be evaluted on their cooperation and their journey report.
Resources:
All materials are placed on the back table and broken up by team.
Conclusion
Congratulations Astronauts! You have successful positioned the planets to orbit the Sun.
By the end of this WebQuest, you will be able to recognize all of the planets in our solar system.
Teacher Page
Grade: 3 Unit: Solar System
Subject Area: Science
Science Standard:
Earth Sciences 4d: Student know that Earth is one of several planets that orbit the Sun and the Moon orbits Earth.
Lesson Objective
Students will understand the different planets in the solar system.
Materials:
- Computers
- Planets Graphic Organizer Worksheet
- Pencils
- Black construction paper
- Various Colors of construction paper
Anticipatory Set: 1. Students will enter room lunch with launch sound effects playing. 2. Each student will be given a mock NASA badge.
Perceived objective and rationale: 1. Research and Analyze 2. Sort gather information