Modeling the Seasons

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This activity provides instructions for learners to create models of the Earth and then to model a "day" on Earth as well as modeling the seasons. Parent web site about ancient observatories and Chaco Canyon (where the Chacoan and Anasazi peoples lived) gives the educator the option to add cultural and historical components to the activity.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$5 - $10 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 11 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Model
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • 150 – 200 watt light bulb (not frosted) or a flashlight
  • lamp or socket for the bulb
  • extension cord
  • room that can be made dark
  • styrofoam balls
  • large straws or funnel
  • rubber bands
  • 5.5 oz flexible plastic cups
  • scissors
  • rolls of tape
  • thumbtacks or sticky dots
  • protractors
  • rulers with centimeters

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth, Moon and Sun
      • Days
      • Seasons
    • Solar System
      • The Sun
  • Mathematics
    • Measurement

Informal Categories

  • Model Building

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

Includes assesments for student learning:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Lambertson, Lori

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, The Exploratorium,