Watch this video showing our solar system. While you are watching, write down the names of the celestial objects you see.
Solar System 101
A tour of our solar system and the celestial objects that make it up.
Solar System 101
A tour of our solar system and the celestial objects that make it up.
Driving Questions
Look at the three Driving Questions below and in your groups, decide which question you would like to answer. Each group can answer the same question or each group can answer different questions. The choice is yours!
- How can we create a model that shows the size and distances of the planets in the solar system?
- How can we design a travel guide for a journey to space?
- How can we create a news broadcast to share important space facts?
Possible Ideas
Scale Model Travel Brochure Space News
How can we create a model that shows the size and distances of the planets in the solar system?
Possible Idea: Solar System Scale Model
Activities:
- Research the relative sizes and distances between planets.
- Build a scale model using craft materials or digital tools.
- Label each planet with facts and key characteristics.
- Create a walking tour of the model on a playground or somewhere outdoors to demonstrate planetary distances.
How can we design a travel guide for a journey to space?
Possible Idea: Space Travel Brochure
Activities:
- Research what astronauts need for space travel and life in space.
- Design a brochure that promotes a space destination (e.g., the Moon, Mars).
- Include travel tips, activities, and interesting facts about the destination.
- Share brochures during a space-themed open house event.
How can we create a news broadcast to share important space facts?
Possible Idea: Space News
Activities:
- Research recent discoveries and exciting facts about space.
- Write news segments about planets, space travel, and future missions.
- Record a video broadcast or perform it live for an audience.
- Share the video broadcast on a school website or class blog.
Thinking Time
What will your group do or make to answer your Driving Question? Use the space below to draw some ideas with your group. Remember to download or save your picture for future use!
Need To Knows
Now that you’ve chosen your question, think about your “Need To Knows.” These are the questions that you need answers to in order to help you answer your Driving Question. Follow the steps below to help you create and refine your questions.
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Old Project Question
For classes using the old unit project, PBL can be integrated with the following Driving Question:
How can we design a home on another planet that people would want to live in?