5th Grade Science Unit 9

Big Idea:

The Sun, Earth, and Moon have distinguishable physical characteristics and move in repeated, patterned ways.

Student Expectations:

Priority TEKS

5.8C demonstrate that Earth rotates on its axis once approximately every 24 hours causing the day/night cycle and the apparent movement of the Sun across the sky

Focus TEKS

5.8D identify and compare the physical characteristics of the Sun, Earth, and Moon.

Ongoing TEKS

(Review) 3.8D identify the planets in Earth’s solar system and their position in relation to the Sun.

(Review) 4.8C collect and analyze data to identify sequences and predict patterns of change in shadows, tides, seasons, and the observable appearance of the Moon over time.

5.3B draw or develop a model that represents how something that cannot be seen such as the Sun, Earth, and Moon system and formation of sedimentary rock works or looks

5.3A analyze, evaluate, and critique scientific explanations by using evidence, logical reasoning, and experimental and observational testing

Student Learning Targets:

• I will demonstrate what causes the appearance of day and night every 24 hours, using models.
• I will show why the Sun “appears” to move across the sky and how it causes predictable changes such as day/night and shadows.
• I will compare the characteristics of the Sun, Earth, and Moon.

Essential Questions:

• What causes night and day?
• If the Sun isn’t moving, why does it look like it travels across the sky?
• What causes shadows and what patterns do they follow?
• What are the predictable patterns involving the Sun, Earth, and Mooon?
• How are the features of the Sun, Earth, and Moon alike and different?

Extra Information:

Adopted Textbook: Science Fusion, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

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