OBSERVABLE PATTERNS IN THE SKY

Strand 4.4: OBSERVABLE PATTERNS IN THE SKY
The Sun is a star that appears larger and brighter than other stars because it is closer to Earth. The rotation of Earth on its axis and orbit of Earth around the Sun cause observable patterns. These include day and night; daily changes in the length and direction of shadows; and different positions of the Sun and stars at different times of the day, month, and year.

Standard 4.4.1
Construct an explanation that differences in the apparent brightness of the Sun compared to other stars is due to the relative distance (scale) of stars from Earth. Emphasize relative distance from Earth. (ESS1.A)

Standard 4.4.2
Analyze and interpret data of observable patterns to show that Earth rotates on its axis and revolves around the Sun. Emphasize patterns that provide evidence of Earth's rotation and orbits around the Sun. Examples of patterns could include day and night, daily changes in length and direction of shadows, and seasonal appearance of some stars in the night sky. Earth's seasons and its connection to the tilt of Earth's axis will be taught in Grades 6 through 8. (ESS1.B)

Measuring Distance in the Solar System | NASA Planetary Sciences | Grades 3-5, 6-8, 13+ Science Teaching and Lesson ResourcesExplore how astronomers and scientists use astronomical units to measure distances in the solar system in this video adapted from NASA. The astronomical unit (au) -- equal to the average distance from Earth to the Sun -- is a convenient unit of measure when talking about distances in the solar system. The video describes how to use proportions to calculate the distance from Mars to the Sun in miles when given its distance in astronomical units. Viewers are asked to estimate the distance in astronomical units to the Voyager 1 spacecraft position, as of 2003, when given its distance in miles and kilometers.

Planets | Science Trek | Grades K-2, 3-5 Science Teaching and Lesson ResourcesThese short videos from IdahoPTV's Science Trek describes the sun, the center of the solar system, the planets, and asteroid belt of the solar system. It explains why earth is in a favorable spot for life, and the importance of gravity in keeping planets in their orbits. Learn how the planets are alike and different.