Target Lesson Overview--The Reasons for the Seasons and Other Phenomena
Students study earth cycles and seasons as well as moon phases and eclipses through the use of light sensors, temperature probes, student models, an Internet Scavenger Hunt, and communicating with students from different locations through either distance learning equipment or e-mail pen pals.
Days 1 & 2
Students gather current temperature and daylight data from various latitudes using the Internet. Students construct models to explain the causes of the seasons and day and night. Students conduct an Internet Scavenger Hunt to collect information to explain the chaning seasons.
Days 3-4
Students view video clips explaining the causes of the seasons. Students modify their models as needed and then share their models with the class. Students use light and temperature sensors to gather data about how the tilt of the Earth affects the temperature of the Earth.
Days 5-6
Students view video clips to explain the phases of the moon and solar and lunar eclipses. Students then create models to demonstrate the causes of eclipses and the different phases of the moon. Students prepare for virtual field trip to discuss seasons with students from South America.
Day 7
Students conduct virtual field trip to South America. Students begin graphing data concerning daily temperature and daily sunrise and sunset times. Students use document camera to share their graphs with the class. This graphing will continue twice a week for the next six weeks to show a trend in data.
Day 8-9
Students develop rubric for PowerPoint Presentation. Students use knowledge gained to predict make inferences about an imaginary planet. Students divide into 4 specialist groups and create their portion of the PowerPoint Presentation.
Rubric for PowerPoint Presentation
Students are placed into groups of four to create a presentation that explains the causes of the seasons, day and night, phases of the moon, etc. Digital photos of student designed models must be included in the presentation.
PowerPoint Assignment
Students in groups of 4 each become specialists in a particular area and create PowerPoint slides using digital photos as well as other graphics to share their information with their classmates.
Day 10
Students share their PowerPoint presentations. Students perform self-evaluation as well as peer evaluations. Students gather information concerning upcoming Star Party.
Addtional Activities
These are other activities that might be used as extensions or challenges or extra credit.
