Kinesthetic Astronomy: The Meaning of a Year

Notes from our reviewers

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• Teaching Tips
  While this is a straightforward lesson, it will require careful classroom management. For larger classes, it may be helpful to use a gym or auditorium for this activity rather than the classroom. It is recommended that teachers obtain a lamp to represent the Sun at the center of the circle and painter's tape (if you are taping the printout signs to chairs or walls). The astrology part is interesting, but not necessary. It could be left out or a good extension activity. It could be a distraction for understanding the basic science in a first round of the activity.
• About the Science
  This lesson provides a simple and embodied activity that compares earth's orbit (year) to rotation (day). The activity poses focused scientific questions to get students thinking about the sun and earth and how they interact. Passed initial science review - expert science review pending.
• About the Pedagogy
  This is a simple and straightforward lesson to teach. The downloadable lesson plan contains information that will be helpful such as the orbit and rotation time for other planets. There is a lesson plan and set up pdf included with the website description of a kinesthetic activity teaching the difference between rotation and orbit. This activity engages students and will getting them moving around the classroom.
• Technical Details/Ease of Use
  This lesson is technically sound. Teachers will need to print and prepare materials, which will take some time.