Download Link to Unit 9

2016-17 Curriculum Blueprint
Grade: 6th
Course Descriptions: Earth/Space
Approximate
Time:
Unit #9: Solar System
Quarter 3
4 weeks
Unit Overview
Students will compare historical models of the solar system. Students will compare and contrast objects in the solar system with regard to gravitational
force, distance from the sun (length of a year), speed, movement, temperature, and atmospheric conditions. Students will explore the role gravity played
in the formation of planets, the sun, and solar systems.
Learning Goal
Sample Essential Questions
Students will be able to:
 Create a data table showing your weight and age on other
 Distinguish between historical models of the solar system.
astronomical bodies.
 Compare and contrast the properties of astronomical objects in
 Contrast the distances among the inner planets and the outer planets
our solar system.
in terms of astronomical units.
 Explain the Law of Universal Gravitation and its role in the
 Defend the following statement: “Gravity is essential to the formation
formation on objects.
of our solar system.”
Learning Scales Self-Assessment
Focus Standards
SC.8.E.5.4 Explore the Law of Universal Gravitation by explaining the role that gravity plays in the formation of planets, stars, and solar systems and in
determining their motions.
SC.8.E.5.7 (AA) Compare and contrast the properties of objects in the Solar System including the Sun, planets, and moons to those of Earth, such as
gravitational force, distance from the Sun, speed, movement, temperature, and atmospheric conditions.
SC.8.E.5.8 Compare various historical models of the Solar System, including geocentric and heliocentric.
Suggested End Product or Teaching Task
Planet Tours- Students use the information they collect to create travel posters, brochures, or television / radio commercials for their object, while also
comparing it to Earth. They may also create a model of their object.
Writing Recursive Standards
LAFS.68.WHST.1.1 Write arguments focused on discipline-specific
content.
Reading Recursive Standards
LAFS.68.RH.2.6 Identify aspects of a text that reveal an author’s point of view
or purpose (e.g., loaded language, inclusion or avoidance of particular facts).
LAFS.68.RST.3.8 Distinguish among facts, reasoned judgment based on
research findings, and speculation in a text
6th grade Earth/Space Science DRAFT
Text Support
NOTE: Before clicking on a youtube link , open youtube browser and
click agree
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 Asteroids Boiled Young Earth’s Oceans Article: Asteroids
Use Literacy Design Collaborative Link for literacy task.
Inner and Outer Planets Article: Planets
Use Literacy Design Collaborative Link for literacy task.
What is the difference between the heliocentric and geo centric
models of the universe Article: Models of the Solar System
Use Literacy Design Collaborative Link for literacy task.
Size Comparison (YouTube) SC.8.E.5.7:
Size Comparison Video
Crash Course Kids (Youtube) -Rocky Planets ; Gas Giants ;Here
Comes the Sun
iScience Textbook: Chapter 19 “The Solar System”
Extended Learning:
 Solar System Web quest: Webquest
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Suggested Labs, Activities and Tasks
Solar System Interactive Highlighting Heliocentric and Geocentric
Models SC.8.E.5.8: SolarsystemScope
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Create Your Own Planet Create a Planet
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Solar System Exploration SS Exploration
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Scale Model of the Solar System Scale Model Lab
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Weight and Age on Other Astronomical Bodies SC.8.E.5.7:
Weight & Age on Other Planets
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Jupiter: Earth’s Shield Earth's Shield
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Solar System Foldable
Interview with a planet
STEM : Design An Insulator Mars Thermos
STEM : Virtual Lab-Design a Planet Design a Planet
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Solar System
6th grade Earth/Space Science DRAFT