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Teaching an inquiry-based activity on space and the planets in the solar system can be a fun and engaging way for students to learn. Here’s how I would teach it in my classroom.
Introduction: Introduce the concept of space and the solar system to students. Explain that there is an order to the planets in relation to which one is nearest the sun. Use rhymes and songs to help remember the order.
Ask Questions: Encourage students to ask questions about the planets. What do they already know? What do they want to learn more about?
Research: Have students research more about the solar system. They can explore how many planets there are and what is the order of the planets, which one is nearest to the sun, which comes next and so on
Activity based approach to consolidating the information, I would prepare large cut outs of the planets and laminate them, I would get the pupils to work in groups and construct a large diagram of the solar system in the hall or outside using the cut outs and chalk/string to represent orbits and help keep the planets in order (this also helps with the spacing of the cut outs).
Discussion: Facilitate a group discussion where students can share their findings, ask questions, and reflect on what they’ve learned.
Consolidation: pupils can create models, posters or drawings to demonstrate their knowledge of the solar system
Conclude the activity by summarizing key points about the solar system and the sequence of planets. Encourage students to continue exploring and asking questions about the solar system.
My goal in this activity is to encourage curiosity, critical thinking, and active learning.