Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Activities
Galactic Journey Field Trip - Visit the local planetarium for interactive workshops exploring the Earth-sun-moon system, experiencing simulated lunar phases and eclipses firsthand (60 min)
Reflective Essay Writing - Write a reflective essay analyzing the planetarium experience and insights gained, citing textual evidence and informational texts to support reflections (60 min)
Textual Analysis - Read and analyze informational texts about celestial movements to deepen understanding, determining central ideas and summarizing distinct from personal opinions (30 min)
Model Development - Begin developing a model of the Earth-sun-moon system to describe cyclic patterns of lunar phases and eclipses (30 min)
Peer Review Session - Engage in a peer review session to evaluate each other's reflective essays and models, providing constructive feedback and reflecting on learning processes (30 min)
Gravity Exploration - Explore and discuss the role of gravity in the motions within galaxies and the solar system, constructing explanations based on evidence from texts (30 min)
Model Refinement - Refine the Earth-sun-moon system model based on peer feedback and textual analysis, integrating additional insights from gravity exploration (30 min)
Reading Task - Analyze a key individual's role in celestial movements through examples and anecdotes in a text, enhancing understanding of figurative language and word relationships (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Reflective essay analyzing experiences and insights from the planetarium field trip
2. Annotated reading log with textual evidence from informational texts about celestial movements
Preparation 1. Coordinate with the local planetarium to schedule the 'Galactic Journey' field trip
2. Gather and prepare informational texts about the Earth-sun-moon system for student reading
3. Create a reflection guide to support students in writing their reflective essays
4. Prepare a reading log template for students to document their text analysis and evidence
5. Ensure transportation and necessary permissions are arranged for the field trip
6. Set up a discussion forum or platform for students to share initial thoughts post-field trip
Week 2
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Activities
Model Creation - Students collaboratively design models of the Earth-sun-moon system using art supplies to visualize lunar phases, eclipses, and seasons, focusing on cyclic patterns and celestial movements (30 min)
Text Analysis - Students read and analyze an informational text on the cyclic patterns of lunar phases, citing textual evidence to support their understanding (30 min)
Gravity Exploration - Conduct experiments with objects of varying weights to observe gravitational effects, discussing the role of gravity in solar system motions (30 min)
Data Interpretation - Analyze data sets related to scale properties of solar system objects, drawing conclusions about celestial sizes and distances (30 min)
Water Cycle Modeling - Develop a model to describe the cycling of water through Earth's systems, identifying the roles of solar energy and gravity (30 min)
Scientific Explanation Writing - Write a scientific explanation based on evidence detailing how geoscience processes have changed Earth's surface over time (30 min)
Resource Distribution Analysis - Examine case studies on Earth's mineral, energy, and groundwater resources, constructing explanations for their uneven distribution (30 min)
Reflection Circle - Facilitate a discussion on how students' insights on Earth's systems and human impact have evolved, encouraging peer feedback (30 min)
Human Impact Monitoring - Design a method for monitoring and minimizing human impact on local ecosystems, applying scientific principles to real-world scenarios (30 min)
Narrative Writing - Write narratives describing imagined experiences of reducing human impact, using effective technique and descriptive details (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Annotated diagrams of the Earth-sun-moon system showing lunar phases and eclipses.
2. A written summary of the informational text about lunar phases and eclipses.
3. A narrative piece imagining a day in the life of an astronomer, incorporating scientific observations.
4. A group presentation explaining their scale model of the Earth-sun-moon system.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for creating scale models, such as foam balls, sticks, and paint.
2. Select and prepare copies of an age-appropriate informational text about lunar phases and eclipses.
3. Create a rubric for peer review sessions to guide feedback on diagrams, summaries, and narratives.
4. Set up a classroom space that allows for the construction and presentation of models.
5. Prepare guiding questions and prompts to help students annotate and summarize their readings.
Week 3
Day 11
Day 12
Day 13
Day 14
Day 15
Activities
Model Presentation - Present Earth-sun-moon system models to peers, describing lunar phases, eclipses, and seasons, and receive feedback for refinement (30 min)
Textual Evidence Analysis - Read and analyze texts on celestial phenomena, focusing on identifying and citing textual evidence to support model presentations (30 min)
Peer Feedback Integration - Incorporate peer feedback to refine models and explanations of lunar phases and eclipses, ensuring clarity and accuracy (30 min)
Writing Task - Develop a well-structured narrative explaining the role of Earth's tilt in the changing seasons, using descriptive details and textual evidence (30 min)
Data Analysis Workshop - Analyze solar system data to interpret scale properties and distances, drawing connections to model presentations (30 min)
Expository Writing - Write an expository piece describing the scale of solar system objects, using data interpretations and textual evidence to support claims (30 min)
Gravity's Role Exploration - Conduct hands-on experiments to explore gravity's influence on celestial motions, documenting observations and insights (30 min)
Informational Text Study - Study an informational text on gravity and galaxies, determining key ideas and summarizing using specific details (30 min)
Reflection Circle - Engage in a reflection circle discussing insights and learning from the week's activities, sharing peer feedback and personal growth (30 min)
Model Revision Session - Revise Earth-sun-moon models based on reflection and new understandings, preparing for upcoming exhibition presentations (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed physical model of the Earth-sun-moon system.
2. Group presentation on key ideas and supporting details from the informational text.
3. Draft of a narrative describing an imaginary journey observing Earth-sun-moon interactions.
4. Peer-reviewed narrative incorporating feedback from peers.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for the Earth-sun-moon model (foam balls, sticks, lamps, paint, etc.).
2. Select and prepare copies of appropriate informational texts on lunar phases and eclipses.
3. Prepare guiding questions and discussion prompts for the text analysis activity.
4. Develop a feedback rubric for the peer review session.
5. Arrange the classroom for collaborative group work and the reflection circle.
Week 4
Day 16
Day 17
Day 18
Day 19
Day 20
Activities
Solar System Scale Models - Students create scale models of the solar system to visualize distances and sizes, integrating previous data analysis (30 min)
Textual Evidence Collection - Gather and cite textual evidence from informational texts to support scale models and interpretations (30 min)
Model Explanation Writing - Write a detailed explanation of the solar system scale model, using textual evidence to support understanding (30 min)
Peer Review and Feedback - Exchange model explanations with peers for feedback, focusing on clarity and evidence integration (30 min)
Gravity and Motion Analysis - Conduct experiments to observe gravity's role in solar system motions, documenting findings and insights (30 min)
Informational Text Study - Analyze texts on gravity's influence in the solar system, summarizing key ideas and supporting findings (30 min)
Human Impact Discussion - Engage in a discussion on the human impact on Earth's systems, drawing connections from previous reflections (30 min)
Scientific Argument Writing - Write a scientific argument on minimizing human impact, using evidence from texts and collected data (30 min)
Exhibition Preparation - Prepare models, explanations, and arguments for the upcoming Planetary Science Symposium, ensuring readiness for presentation (30 min)
Reflection Circle - Reflect on the learning journey and project progress, sharing insights and growth with peers (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed scale model of the Earth, Sun, and Moon system
2. Chart representing the scale properties of solar system objects
3. Scientific explanation essay with textual evidence
4. Peer-reviewed feedback form for writing improvement
Preparation 1. Gather materials for model building (balls, lamps, chalk, etc.)
2. Collect and provide access to informational texts and data sources on solar system objects
3. Prepare a data analysis worksheet to guide students through data interpretation
4. Develop a rubric for the scientific explanation essay and peer review process
5. Set up a classroom space conducive to group work and peer review activities
Week 5
Day 21
Day 22
Day 23
Day 24
Day 25
Activities
Exhibition Strategy Planning - Collaborate to outline presentation strategies for the Planetary Science Symposium, focusing on clarity and evidence integration (30 min)
Research Compilation - Gather and organize research findings and textual evidence for the exhibition, ensuring comprehensive information is ready for presentation (30 min)
Model Refinement - Refine Earth-sun-moon system models for exhibition, integrating feedback and demonstrating cyclic patterns (30 min)
Textual Analysis - Analyze informational texts on human impact and celestial phenomena, citing evidence to support exhibition arguments (30 min)
Presentation Drafting - Draft written and oral presentations for the Planetary Science Symposium, focusing on data interpretation and scientific explanations (30 min)
Peer Review Session - Exchange presentation drafts with peers for feedback, emphasizing clarity and evidence-based arguments (30 min)
Exhibition Rehearsal - Practice presenting models and arguments to peers, ensuring readiness for professional dialogue at the symposium (30 min)
Reflection Circle - Share reflections on learning journey and project growth, discussing insights and future goals (30 min)
Final Presentation Preparation - Finalize exhibition materials and presentations, ensuring all components are ready for the symposium (30 min)
Textual Evidence Integration - Incorporate final textual evidence into presentations to support scientific arguments and claims (30 min)
Deliverables
1. A written narrative describing a day in the life of an astronomer observing the Earth-sun-moon system.
Preparation 1. Gather a selection of informational texts about the Earth-sun-moon system and gravitational interactions for student analysis.
2. Collect materials for model-building, including foam balls, string, glue, and markers.
3. Prepare data sets related to scale properties of solar system objects for analysis activities.
4. Create a peer review rubric focusing on narrative structure, content accuracy, and use of scientific vocabulary.
Week 6
Day 26
Day 27
Day 28
Day 29
Day 30
Activities
Exhibition Planning Session - Collaborate to finalize exhibition plans for the Planetary Science Symposium, organizing research findings and models for presentation (30 min)
Scientific Explanation Writing - Draft detailed scientific explanations for each model, using textual evidence and data interpretations to support claims (30 min)
Peer Review Workshop - Exchange scientific explanations with peers for feedback, focusing on clarity, coherence, and evidence integration (30 min)
Gravity's Role Narrative - Write a narrative explaining gravity's role in celestial motions, employing effective technique and descriptive details (30 min)
Informational Text Analysis - Analyze texts on human impact on Earth's systems, identifying key ideas and citing evidence to support scientific arguments (30 min)
Scientific Argument Revision - Revise scientific arguments on minimizing human impact based on peer feedback and new insights from text analysis (30 min)
Model Presentation Rehearsal - Conduct rehearsals for model presentations at the symposium, practicing articulation and responses to potential questions (30 min)
Reflection Circle - Facilitate a reflection circle discussing personal growth throughout the project, sharing insights and feedback with peers (30 min)
Exhibition Setup - Finalize the setup for the Planetary Science Symposium, ensuring models, explanations, and arguments are ready for presentation (30 min)
Final Reflection Writing - Write a final reflection essay articulating the learning journey, challenges faced, and socio-emotional skills developed (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed models of the Earth-sun-moon system highlighting lunar phases, eclipses, and seasonal changes.
2. Drafts of scientific explanations supported by textual evidence regarding the Earth-sun-moon interactions and the role of gravity in celestial motions.
3. Reflective essays summarizing students' learning experiences and insights gained from the project thus far.
Preparation 1. Gather materials such as lamps, globes, balls representing the moon, and other classroom supplies needed to demonstrate and model celestial movements.
2. Provide access to informational texts and articles explaining the role of gravity in the solar system and the mechanics behind lunar phases.
3. Organize peer review guidelines and criteria to facilitate constructive feedback during peer evaluation sessions.
4. Ensure digital or physical resources are available for students to document and present their models and scientific explanations effectively.
Week 7
Day 31
Day 32
Day 33
Day 34
Day 35
Activities
Exhibition Setup - Arrange models and displays for the Planetary Science Symposium, ensuring visual clarity and organization (30 min)
Research Presentation Preparation - Finalize research summaries and integrate textual evidence for clear communication of findings (30 min)
Informational Text Analysis - Study texts on Earth's systems and human impact, identifying key ideas for exhibition presentations (30 min)
Model Presentation Rehearsal - Practice presenting Earth-sun-moon models, focusing on explaining cyclic patterns and celestial movements (30 min)
Peer Feedback Session - Present exhibition materials to peers for constructive feedback, refining for clarity and impact (30 min)
Scientific Explanation Enhancement - Revise explanations based on peer feedback, integrating precise language and evidence (30 min)
Exhibition Component Assembly - Compile all exhibition materials, ensuring cohesive presentation of models and arguments (30 min)
Reflection Circle - Discuss insights gained from preparation and rehearsal, sharing personal growth and project progress (30 min)
Final Exhibition Rehearsal - Conduct a full run-through of presentations, simulating symposium conditions for readiness (30 min)
Textual Evidence Integration - Review and integrate final textual evidence into presentations, supporting scientific claims (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed and revised Earth-sun-moon system model.
2. Annotated analysis of informational texts, highlighting key points and cultural interpretations.
3. Group narrative essay detailing an imagined journey to the moon.
4. Data analysis report on the scale properties of solar system objects.
Preparation 1. Gather informational texts on lunar eclipses and cultural interpretations for classroom use.
2. Prepare materials for students to build and refine their Earth-sun-moon system models, such as craft supplies and modeling clay.
3. Access to data sets and tools for analyzing solar system object scale properties.
4. Create a rubric for the narrative essay to guide students in their writing and ensure alignment with learning goals.
5. Arrange classroom space for reflection circles and peer review sessions, ensuring a supportive and collaborative environment.
Week 8
Day 36
Day 37
Day 38
Day 39
Day 40
Activities
Exhibition Setup - Arrange models, presentations, and informational displays for the Planetary Science Symposium, ensuring all elements are organized and accessible (30 min)
Final Presentation Rehearsal - Practice presenting models and scientific arguments to peers, focusing on articulation and evidence integration (30 min)
Symposium Presentation - Present research findings and strategies at the Planetary Science Symposium, engaging in professional dialogue with local scientists and environmentalists (60 min)
Post-Symposium Reflection - Participate in a reflection circle discussing feedback received during the symposium and personal growth throughout the project (30 min)
Portfolio Compilation - Compile research findings, models, and written analyses into a comprehensive portfolio for final evaluation (30 min)
Informational Text Analysis - Read and analyze texts related to human impact on Earth's systems, identifying key ideas and citing evidence to support final reflections (30 min)
Scientific Argument Writing - Write a scientific argument based on symposium feedback and text analysis, detailing strategies for minimizing human impact (30 min)
Final Reflection Essay - Write a detailed reflection essay articulating the learning journey, challenges faced, and socio-emotional skills developed during the project (30 min)
Peer Review and Feedback Session - Exchange final reflection essays with peers for feedback, focusing on clarity, coherence, and personal growth (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Submit a refined research portfolio that includes a comprehensive model of the Earth-sun-moon system and data interpretations on solar system objects.
2. Prepare and present a scientific argument supported by textual evidence, detailing the impact of human activity on Earth's systems.
3. Participate in the 'Planetary Science Symposium,' presenting research findings through interactive displays and oral presentations to local scientists and environmentalists.
Preparation 1. Ensure access to computers and software for digital presentations and portfolio compilation.
2. Gather informational texts and resources on celestial movements and human impact on the environment for reference.
3. Set up the classroom space for rehearsals, providing presentation equipment such as projectors and display boards.
4. Coordinate with community partners to finalize details for the symposium, including logistics and technical support.