Introduction
Hello students!!!
The next unit will emphasize analyses of data from Earth-based instruments, space-based telescopes, and spacecraft to determine similarities and differences among solar system objects.
However, to start this topic, we need to understand the TRUE size of our solar system and the different celestial bodies in it.
As astronomers, you will need to investigate the world, and worlds, around you! Complete each task by reading the material, watching the videos, and answering the questions that follow. After you're done you will be ready for your evaluation.
Task
Task 1:
Visit the website If the Moon Were Only 1 Pixel: A Tediously Accurate Scale Model of the Solar System. At first, I want you to explore the website WITHOUT any direct instructions. When you have navigated your way through the entire website, Take a moment to fill out the "Think, See, Wonder" data sheet assigned to you in the Science Google Classroom.
AND
Complete the following sentence:
Most of space is just __________________!
Task 2:
Watch the video To Scale: The Solar System and respond to following questions:
1. No models are perfect representations of the real thing. What were the limitations of the "desert model?"
2. Write a summary of how they created a scale model of the Solar System in exactly 21 words.
3. Why did they check to see if their model Sun was the same size of the real Sun at sunrise?
Task 3:
Using the data table provided in the Science Google Classroom, create your own scale model of the Solar System (note: one item will not be to scale. Can you guess what celestial body it is?). The ratio for the distances and the sizes of the planets are given. Upload a 1 minute, MAX, video (or photo for approved students only) to the GC explaining your model and how you created it. Examples are also available on the Science Google Classroom.
Process
Using household material, create a scale model of our Solar System using the given measurements in the data table provided. If all else fails, cut pieces of paper into the shapes of the planets.
Evaluation
Your final Evaluation for MS-ESS1-3: Scale Properties in the Solar System will be your 1 minute video from the 3rd task. You will be evaluated on the following criteria: Accuracy of Educational Information, Accuracy of Scale Distances, Accuracy of Scale Sizes, and Creativity. This rubric is also available on the SCience Google Classroom.
Do your best! Remember, effort is rewarded.
Conclusion
This series of independent activities will be the platform that allows you to "jump off" into our next unit. Take this opportunity to expand your own understanding of the world around you and prepare yourself for what is to come. Of course, I will always be here if you stumble along the way. Do not be afraid to reach out and ask questions. Contact information can be found on the class website of Google Classroom.
Teacher Page
WebQuest Learning Goal: Students will be able to create an accurate scale model of the Solar System using given data. Students will understand that the vastness of space is filled with just that, SPACE.
This WebQuest was created to introduce the NGSS standard MS-ESS1-3: Scale Properties in the Solar System to the class. This standard is vast and the intent behind this activity is to allow students to independently build background knowledge in order to be successful as we progress through the unit. Allowing students to control their own educational pathways can be empowering and lead to deeper learning.