6th Grade Lesson Plans: The Solar System and Space Technology

TEKS Objectives:

(11)  Earth and space. The student understands the organization of our solar system and the relationships among the various bodies that comprise it. The student is expected to:

(A)  describe the physical properties, locations, and movements of the Sun, planets, Galilean moons, meteors, asteroids, and comets;

(B)  understand that gravity is the force that governs the motion of our solar system; and

(C)  describe the history and future of space exploration, including the types of equipment and transportation needed for space travel.

May 7-8, 2012

Discuss the properties of systems in the Solar System: Sun, planet, dwarf planet, moon, Galilean moons, asteroid, comet, meteor, meteorite, AU.  Computer research activity on current space missions.

May 9-10, 2012

Discuss the role of gravity within the Solar System.  Lab activity on period of revolution.

May 11 & 14, 2012

Discuss equipment used in space exploration including satellites, telescopes, and space probes.  Discuss the purpose and accomplishments of the space shuttle and space probes.  List future plans for space exploration.  Lab activity on the measurement unit AU (astronomical unit).

May 15-16, 2012

Discuss rockets and their uses.  Review the history of the early space program including how it was organized and what it accomplished.  Lab activity on the basic principles of rocket flight.

May 17 & 18, 2012

Complete Study Sheets.  These are review questions over Space Technology and the Solar System, Chapters 11 and 12.  Students are to use their class notes and textbook to complete the review; due May 21 & 22 if not completed in class.

May 21-22, 2012

Review for semester exam including Chapters 11 and 12 on Space Technology and the Solar System as well as questions overs all chapters covered in the spring semester.  Please look back at previous posts for review materials on these chapters.

Correct Study Sheets and make packet of science papers.  Assignment:  Study for semester exam (review study packets); get packet signed for 3 extra credit points on test grade.

May 23-24-25, 2012

Spring Semester Exams including Chapter 11 and 12, Space Technology and the Solar System, plus all chapters studied in the spring semester.  Please look back at previous posts for review materials on these chapters.