How do scientists classify whether an object lies within our solar system or not? Examine the boundaries of the space neighborhood using a lesson from PBS's Space series for middle schoolers. After viewing a model of the solar system, scholars discuss their observations and work with data to find logical patterns.

Concepts

the solar cycle, planets, inner planets, outer planets, light, gravity, the sun, boundaries, colors, patterns

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Pause the video when all of the planets are in a row and ask pupils to explain why this is not a good model of the solar system
• Use the solar system facts handout to engage the class in recognizing patterns in the data
  

Classroom Considerations

• Students should be somewhat familiar with all of the planets in terms of name and appearance before beginning the lesson
  

Pros

• The resource shows a clear pattern of the composition of planets to help learners relate composition to how the planet formed and its current location
• Insightful teaching tips provide support and a wealth of ideas
  

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.6.2 SL.7.2 SL.8.2 RST.6-8.2