Learners share their observations of the Sun, then analyze images collected by NASA's Solar and Heliospheric Observatory. They create exhibitions for presentations.

Learners explore the transit of Venus and the information that this minieclipse provides about the distance between the Earth and the sun. They create their own astronomical units.

Learners identify the name, order and attributes of the planets. They role play the position of planets, and draw pictures of the planets as well.

Students explore planetary research and become familiar with the planets and their characteristics. They compare and contrasts planets and moons.

Students explore the sun and take a "trip" to outer space.

Students use a simple physical model of the Earth, sun, and moon to understand why the moon changes phases from the perspective of Earthly observers. They hold up balls representing the moon in a room with a single light source to see...

Students engage in a lesson that covers the concept of different phases of the moon. They name the cycles of the phases of the moon while using flashlights to simulate the light of the sun. They research information about several...

In this science worksheet, students locate and identify various vocabulary terms related to space science. There are 21 words located in the puzzle.  

In this earth and space science worksheet, students complete a crossword puzzle given 7 clues and a word bank on topics such as earthquakes, erosion, galaxies and weathering.

Students study orbits and ellipses and see the differences between orbits and comets.  In this investigative lesson students do an activity that shows them what objects are more like comets and fill out a worksheet. 

Pupils explore the difference between a meteor, meteorite and meteoroid. In this space science lesson, students first read information about these space bodies. Pupils make Comet Cookies and use them to model a meteor shower with a lamp...

Sixth graders explore the concept of constellations. In this constellations lesson plan, 6th graders research Internet and print sources regarding constellations, particularly those that are named for mythological creatures. Students...

First graders study stars. In this space science lesson plan, 1st graders determine that it is best to observe stars on a clear night and define various qualities of stars.

Students create graphic organizer webs that illustrate their thinking about seasonal physical and biological changes caused by changes in sunlight. They identify the central role of sunlight in living systems.

Come take a ride on the space bus! Scholars go on an imaginary trip to pick up their peers from the inner and outer planets while reinforcing math skills. First, learners round decimals to identify each planets' distance from Earth....

Scholars gain an insight into the relative size of planets and distance between inner and outer planets with the help of informational text, a data table, and a series of four questions.  

Looking to take a trip? Why not go to space? Here, scholars take on the role as travel agent to create a guide to their favorite planet including travel tips and sightseeing recommendations. 

How do you properly illustrate the extreme size difference between two planets—Earth and Jupiter? With the help of jellybeans, of course! Create a scale model of Jupiter's mass compared to Earth using a fishbowl, 1,400 beans, and a...

In 2006, New Horizons began its mission to fly to Pluto. As it continues its journey, scholars track its progress with the help of an informative website, all the while reinforcing measurement concepts with the construction of a scaled...

There are a ton of great vocabulary words to be found in a word search about the planet Venus. Learners will locate and circle 34 wonderful words related to planetary science and the solar system. Printing instructions are included.

Learners learn along with Ms. Frizzle's class. In this Magic School Bus lesson plan, students explore outer space as they visit the Sun, Mercury, Venus, and Mars in order to learn about our solar system.

Students create glitter-covered comet models. Then they make large outdoor chalk drawings of the solar system and place their comets at the location of the Kuiper belt. They carry their comets around an orbit of the sun, shaking various...

Students engage in a fun, creative way to discover how the Earth moves. This lesson helps students explain why there is day and night. It can also create curiosity to further study the solar system and eclipses!

Students use NASA satellite data to see cloud cover over Africa.  In this seasons instructional activity students access data and import it into Excel.