Download This Lesson (Word, 42 KB) Grade Level: 5-8 Science
Education Standards: Science and Technology -- Content Standard
D Earth in the Solar System: - The Earth is the third planet
from the sun in a system that includes the Moon, the sun, seven
other planets and their Moons, and smaller objects, such as
asteroids and comets. The sun, an average star, is the central
and largest body in the solar system. - Most objects in the
solar system are in regular and predictable motion. Those
motions explain such phenomena as the day, the year, phases of
the Moon, and eclipses. - The sun is the major source of energy
for phenomena on the Earth's surface, such as growth of plants,
winds, ocean currents, and the water cycle. Seasons result from
variations in the amount of the sun's energy hitting the
surface, due to the tilt of the Earth's rotation on its axis and
the length of the day. Short Description: Students measure and
calculate the diameter of the sun with a meter stick and index
cards.