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Unit Curriculum Map for:
4th Grade Science
Cook County Schools
Unit: Space
# of Days: 30
Key Concept(s)
There are similarities and differences between stars and planets.
Planets orbit; stars do not.
The patterns in the stars in the sky stay the same, but they are seen at different seasons.
The different star patterns are called constellations.
Technology such as telescopes, satellites, and space probes allow us to observe planets and stars.
Standards/Elements
S4E1a,b,c,d
S4E2a,b,c,d
S4CS2a
S4CS4a,b,c
S4SC7a,b,c,d
Unit Essential Questions
How are stars and planets alike? How are they different?
Why do we have day and night?
Why do we have four seasons?
Why does the moon seem to change shape?
Content
 Star attributes
 Earth’s movement
 Moon phases
 Planet attributes
Key Terms/Vocabulary – “Language of the Standard/Elements”
telescope, star, planet, mass, constellation, gravity, orbit, astronomer, rotation, revolution, axis,
seasons, equator, hemisphere, phases, cycle, satellite, solar system, inner planets, outer planets, gas
giant, space probe
Skills
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Recognize attributes of stars in the night sky.
Compare similarities and differences of planets to stars in appearance, position and number.
Explain why constellations stay the same, but are seen at different times.
Identify technology used to observe objects in the sky.
Explain causes of day and night using a model.
Explain the phases of the moon.
Demonstrate sizes of the sun, the planets, and the solar system in order.
Demonstrate the revolution of the earth around the sun.
Assessment(s)
Vocabulary quizzes
Notebooks
Models
Planet strips
Ticket out the door
Weight sheets
Benchmark assessments
Planet info sheets