Earth, Moon, and Sun System
Gravity and Orbits of Earth and Other Planets
Gravity
The strong force that pulls all objects on earth towards the center of the earth.
- force created by an object that pulls on another object.
- gravity in space keeps planets in orbit.
Sun - Earth - Moon
Orbit
Moon's orbit around Earth.
Earth's orbit around Sun.
Misconception and Truth
Misconception - The force of gravity is stronger the further away objects are from each other.
Truth - The force is actually weaker the more distant objects are from each other.
PBS Kids Gravity Song
Orbits of Earth and Other Planets
The way in which a planet moves around the sun.
- all planets orbit the sun.
- orbits are elliptical in motion
Misconception and Truth
Misconception - Moons orbit the sun.
Truth - The moons orbit the sun at the same the planet orbits the sun. In essence the moon does not orbit the sun on its own.
Activity for Helping Students Understand the Planets Orbits
People Planets
Help your students remember significant features and the order of the planets by “acting out” the Solar System. Create groups of nine or more students and assign a planet or celestial body to each group. For homework ask your students to prepare a costume and a small speech to help others identify their planet. Finally, have each group work together to act out the orbit of their planets for the class or another class in the school.
Help your students remember significant features and the order of the planets by “acting out” the Solar System. Create groups of nine or more students and assign a planet or celestial body to each group. For homework ask your students to prepare a costume and a small speech to help others identify their planet. Finally, have each group work together to act out the orbit of their planets for the class or another class in the school.
(http://educators.brainpop.com/lesson-plan/solar-system-activities-for-kids/)
Earth's Orbit Song