Explaining the Solar System

What can you see in the sky every night?This unit is a highly descriptive account of the contents and history of the universe, as it is pictured by scientists over the past fifty years. The four forces that shape our universe are emphasized as explanatory tools. Two major projects are used to cover the vast number of topics and resources available on this topic.The unit itself is subdivided into four major sections. Each section will take a little more than one week to complete. 1. Construction of some simple instruments to assist in observation of the earth, the sun, the moon, and time, all from the point of view of the surface of a tilted and spinning earth. 2. Observation of the sun, the closest star. From these observations we move to an understanding of the forces that shape our sun and its behaviour. 3. Observation of the moon, and other satellites. From these observations we build an understanding of the role of gravitation in orbital motion 4. Research project: phenomena within our solar system 5. Research project: phenomena beyond our solar systemThis time line is divided into separate one-week blocks. Students could observe and record several lunar cycles, or the changing position of the sun, over three or four months.As in all of the Ross Lattner IntuitivScience series, diagrams are an important mode of expression. Parents and teachers, you get one half of the book We provide solid pedagogical supports, recipes, and methods of presentation.