Space and aliens
An infant based lesson that can also be extended for older classes on space and aliens
Begin with discussion about what space looks like and what might be out there.
First, we’ll learn about the planets in our solar system and discuss how each one might look and feel different. Use of pictures and models to see examples of rocky planets like Earth and Mars, and gas giants like Jupiter and Saturn.
Next, a sensory activity! Have available in tubs or trays different stations with materials representing the surfaces of planets. For rocky planets, we might use sandpaper to feel rough textures, and for gas giants, we could use balloons filled with air to feel smooth surfaces.
Discuss what felt at each station and compare it to the planets learned about. Talk about why planets have different surfaces and what makes them unique.
Art extension- create own planets using clay or playdough. Each child will make a planet with a surface texture they choose, like smooth or bumpy, to represent what they’ve learned.
To extend and discuss life on other planets
Read simple space books “Is there anybody out there ?” By Laura Krantz would be a good choice
This lesson can be extended in coming weeks to look at designing and landing a space shuttle, based on the surface of the planet what would be required ? What would we need to survive there? What must an alien be like to exist on the chosen planet?
