[Padraig McGrath]

I am intrigued by the amount of links that can be made across so many subject areas. There are some great ideas for linkage here and I will definitely use some of them when teaching space in the classroom.

[Padraig McGrath]

This sounds like a great lesson. I think that it is a great idea to use the mnemonic when teaching the children the planets. It is a really good way of teaching the children the names of the 8 planets.

[Padraig McGrath]

Teaching the plants:

1. Introduce the 8 planets to the children. Sharing picture and fun facts with the children. The children will have an opportunity to share their prior knowledge regarding the planets. They will also have an opportunity to ask questions they may have about the planets.

2. Planet Passports: The children create passports for each planet with fun facts and pictures of the planet.

3. Then the children will ‘travel’ to each planet (stations in the classroom). When the children are at each station they will learn about the planets size, atmosphere, and unique features. While the children are at each station they can write down questions that they many have about the planet. This will create inquiry based questions that can be explored in another science lesson based on space.

4. Planet Matching Game: The children must match the planet with the fun fact about each planet. This will identify any issues or areas the need to be further explored.

5. Planet song to reinforce the children’s learning of the 8 planets.

[Padraig McGrath]

Inquiry based space lesson in the classroom:

The children could create their own ‘solar system’. The children would be provided with different-sized balls for planets, paint, and information cards about each planet. Let the children explore and create their own mini solar systems while learning about the plants and their characteristics. It will spark curiosity and engagement in space science.

[Padraig McGrath]

Hi Orla,

That sounds like a great enquiry based activity to do with a class. The children would be really interested in that activity. I like the way prediction is part of the lesson too!

[Padraig McGrath]

Hello,

I’m teaching 2nd class. I have a big interest in space, it is really facinating. My favourite space fact is that one million earths could fit inside the sun.

[Author]

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