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Module 3 – Assignment.
Stars.
I loved the idea of making constellations out of tin foil and straws, and this activity is a perfect way to introduce junior infants to astronomy. I would start by showing a picture of the Plough constellation and explaining its significance in simple terms.
I would give each child a piece of black construction paper, small pieces of tin foil to form the stars, and pre-cut straws to connect the stars. As they place the tin foil pieces on the paper and connect them with the straws, I would guide them, explaining the positions of each star.
To make the lesson more engaging, I would read a picture book like “How to Catch a Star” by Oliver Jeffers. This book captures the wonder of the night sky and complements the activity perfectly. Also, I would incorporate nursery rhymes like “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” to reinforce the theme and add a musical element to the lesson. I would try incorporate star jumps in PE.
We would finish by having the children share their creations with the class. This hands-on activity, combined with the picture book and nursery rhymes, makes learning about stars fun and memorable for young learners.