Planet Parade: Scale Models in Orbit

Activities	Planet Walk - Begin the lesson with a 'Planet Walk' where students move around the classroom, each representing a different planet. Use string or tape to create a scaled-down solar system on the floor, marking each planet's position. Discuss unique features and relative distances. (10 min) Research and Exploration - Students use tablets or books to research the planet they represent, focusing on size, composition, and distance from the sun. They take notes on key characteristics to inform their model creation. (15 min) Scale Calculation - Introduce students to the concept of scaling. In small groups, guide them to calculate scale factors for their planet's size and distance using simple multiplication, ensuring age-appropriate understanding. (10 min) Artistic Planning - Students brainstorm artistic ideas for depicting their planet's features, choosing materials and colors. They sketch preliminary designs, considering how to visually represent the planet's surface and atmosphere. (5 min) Group Sharing - Students share their research findings and artistic plans with peers in small groups, receiving feedback on their ideas and potential improvements. This fosters self-directed learning and collaboration. (5 min)
Deliverables	1. Project journal entries documenting planet research and initial sketch designs. 2. Completed scale calculations for planetary sizes and distances. 3. Constructed planet models that accurately represent the researched characteristics. 4. Reflections based on peer review feedback recorded in project journals. 5. Participation in the classroom gallery walk to showcase and explain their models.
Preparation	1. Gather materials for the 'Planet Walk' including string or tape and planet markers. 2. Coordinate with the science museum for virtual tours or interactive presentations. 3. Prepare research resources including books and online materials about the solar system. 4. Arrange a session with a math educator for the scale calculation workshop. 5. Collect art supplies for model construction such as paint, clay, and recycled materials. 6. Set up a classroom space for model construction and peer review.

Activities

Planet Walk - Begin the lesson with a 'Planet Walk' where students move around the classroom, each representing a different planet. Use string or tape to create a scaled-down solar system on the floor, marking each planet's position. Discuss unique features and relative distances. (10 min)

Research and Exploration - Students use tablets or books to research the planet they represent, focusing on size, composition, and distance from the sun. They take notes on key characteristics to inform their model creation. (15 min)

Scale Calculation - Introduce students to the concept of scaling. In small groups, guide them to calculate scale factors for their planet's size and distance using simple multiplication, ensuring age-appropriate understanding. (10 min)

Artistic Planning - Students brainstorm artistic ideas for depicting their planet's features, choosing materials and colors. They sketch preliminary designs, considering how to visually represent the planet's surface and atmosphere. (5 min)

Group Sharing - Students share their research findings and artistic plans with peers in small groups, receiving feedback on their ideas and potential improvements. This fosters self-directed learning and collaboration. (5 min)

Deliverables

1. Project journal entries documenting planet research and initial sketch designs.
2. Completed scale calculations for planetary sizes and distances.
3. Constructed planet models that accurately represent the researched characteristics.
4. Reflections based on peer review feedback recorded in project journals.
5. Participation in the classroom gallery walk to showcase and explain their models.

Preparation

1. Gather materials for the 'Planet Walk' including string or tape and planet markers.
2. Coordinate with the science museum for virtual tours or interactive presentations.
3. Prepare research resources including books and online materials about the solar system.
4. Arrange a session with a math educator for the scale calculation workshop.
5. Collect art supplies for model construction such as paint, clay, and recycled materials.
6. Set up a classroom space for model construction and peer review.