How can December 21 be the shortest day of the year when all days are 24 hours long? Pupils see how to build a model showing the differences between winter and summer solstices and equinoxes. Using this model, classes can then discuss the movement of the sun, seasons, changes in daylight, the movement of Earth, etc. 

Concepts

summer solstice, winter solstice, the equinox

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Place learners in groups of two to three and use this activity when discussing seasons

Classroom Considerations

• The simple model would be best to build in class, as it contains materials that are cheap and easy to gather
• Pupils need to have an understanding of how the sun appears to move across the sky throughout the year

Pros

• Provides directions for a simple model made out of paper plates and a more complex model made out of wood
• Includes background information on solstices and equinoxes

Cons

• Does not provide questions for discussion or give ideas on how to use in class

Common Core

RST.6-8.3