Solar System in My Neighborhood

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In this activity, learners shrink the scale of the vast solar system to the size of their neighborhood. Learners are challenged to consider not only the traditional "planets," but also some of the smaller objects orbiting the Sun. Learners compare the relative sizes of scale models of the planets, two dwarf planets, and a comet as represented by fruits and other foods. They determine the spacing between the scaled planets on a map of the neighborhood and relate those distances to familiar landmarks. This activity is part of a sequence of activities focused on Jupiter's immense size.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
Over $20 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Model
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • (55"–wide) giant pumpkin OR (55"–wide) model pumpkin (made from Halloween orange pumpkin garbage bag filled with packing peanuts or pillows)
  • (5 1/2"–wide) large mango or potato
  • (4 1/2"–wide) large orange or cantaloupe or coconut
  • (2”–wide) plum
  • (2"–wide) kiwi or lime
  • (1/2"–wide) small grape
  • (1/2"–wide) large blueberry
  • (1/4"–wide) pea or navy bean
  • (1/5"–long) uncooked orzo pasta
  • (3/32"–wide) grain of uncooked rice
  • (1/16"–wide) grain of uncooked rice
  • (1/64"–wide) poppy seed
  • Measuring tape (to measure a distance of 190 feet)
  • Coloring supplies, including markers and colored pencils
  • 1 set of Our Solar System lithographs (NASA educational product number LS–2001–08–002–HQ), preferably double–sided and in color (optional)
  • 1 (22" x 32" or larger) neighborhood map, extending to 6 miles from your geographic location, prepared as described under "Preparation" using either a photocopier and a detailed local map or mapping software and a printer
  • 11 (20") strings
  • Ruler
  • Tape
  • 11 coffee stirrers
  • Planet Labels
  • Access to the online song “11 Planets” by Lisa Loeb - link is at the bottom of the page (optional)
  • A large area where the children can model the orbit of Mercury around the Sun (perhaps outdoors for this portion of the activity)
  • A large wall, table, or floor space for posting or laying the map down
  • "Solar System in My Neighborhood" pages
  • Pens or pencils

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Astronomy
    • Solar System
      • The Planets
      • Asteroids and Comets
  • Mathematics
    • Measurement
      • Units of Measurement
    • Number and Operations
      • Fractions
      • Multiples and Factors
    • Representation
  • Physical Sciences
    • Structure and Properties of Matter

Informal Categories

  • Food and Cooking
  • Model Building
  • Outdoor Activity

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • be mobile
  • 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:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • , Lunar and Planetary Institute, 2011

Funding Source:

  • NASA