Astronomy and Our Solar System: The Terrestrial Planets

The Universe is incredibly fascinating and enormously vast. The celestial bodies (like planets, comets, and galaxies) that make it up are very intriguing and its size can be mind-boggling. Our very own Solar System is one of those intriguing components of the Universe, from the barren world of Mercury to the dwarf planet Pluto that is over 3 billion miles from Earth. 

In this class, we will explore the terrestrial planets in our Solar System (Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars) and discover unique features of each of these alien worlds. Students will learn things like: What defines a terrestrial planet? Do they have moons? What makes them alike and different from Earth? What have scientists learned while exploring these planets?

The class will be presented via Nearpod, which is an external website. At the beginning of each class I will provide a direct link and/or code for students to log in using an internet browser OR the Nearpod app on a tablet/smartphone.

Reasons why astronomy education is important:
1) It’s a lifelong tool that children will use. Having an understanding of the heavens will be something they appreciate throughout their lives.

2) Astronomy encourages kids to get outside. Having an understanding of the stars will encourage kids to get outdoors and look up as they gain confidence in their knowledge of the motions and placement of celestial bodies.

3)It is a hobby that the entire family can do and enjoy together. Classical astronomy doesn’t require specialized tools or instruments. Families can simply enjoy together time, gazing at the stars.

4) It is cross-curricular. There are innumerable references to astronomy in literature, history, and the Bible, to name a few. Having an understanding of the heavens will help to deepen an appreciation in these other areas, too.

5) Astronomy is fun and a great way to get kids excited about science! Kids can hardly get enough of hearing about black holes, exoplanets, stars, and the Solar System. Astronomy is a great “springboard” for them to delve deeper into more science and math concepts.