Constellation creator
Students will become astronomers in this interactive science lesson. They will learn about three major constellations and will be able to identify the constellation as seasonal or circumpolar.
Essential Question
What is the difference between seasonal and circumpolar constellations?
Grade(s):
- 4
Subject(s):
Recommended Technology:
individual laptops
Other Instructional Materials or Notes:
You could also do this activity with paper and cut out stars.
Lesson Progression
Prior Knowledge: Ask students what they know about stars. Record the information on chart paper and add as students share their ideas.
Engagement: watch the video included in the resources. Students should take notes while they are watching. Tell them to be prepared to share out at least 2 facts from the video.
Direct teach: Use the slide show to teach students the information. Students should take notes as you go through the slide show. AVID 3 column notes are included in the resources. You can print these out and students can fill in the blanks and glue them in their interactive notebooks. You can also use this as a digital copy and students can keep this on their devices.
Independent Practice: Students will use their knowledge of the constellations to build the constellations and identify the constellation as circumpolar or seasonal.
Closure: Students will complete a jam board and share at least one fact they learned about constellations.
Extension: Use the website in the resources section and allow students to research the constellation of their choice. They will create a visual and identify the constellation as seasonal or circumpolar.