The Sun: Our Star
Students will investigate the Sun's role as the primary source of energy for Earth and its characteristics.
Key Questions
- Explain how the Sun provides light and heat to Earth.
- Analyze the Sun's importance for life on Earth.
- Compare the Sun to other stars in terms of size and temperature.
Ontario Curriculum Expectations
Suggested Methodologies
Ready to teach this topic?
Generate a complete, classroom-ready active learning mission in seconds.
Planning templates for Science
5E Model
The 5E Model structures lessons through five phases (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate), guiding students from curiosity to deep understanding through inquiry-based learning.
unit plannerThematic Unit
Organize a multi-week unit around a central theme or essential question that cuts across topics, texts, and disciplines, helping students see connections and build deeper understanding.
rubricSingle-Point Rubric
Build a single-point rubric that defines only the "meets standard" level, leaving space for teachers to document what exceeded and what fell short. Simple to create, easy for students to understand.
More in Earth and the Solar System
Earth's Daily Spin: Rotation
Students will investigate Earth's rotation and its effect on day and night.
3 methodologies
Earth's Yearly Journey: Revolution
Students will explore Earth's revolution around the Sun and its connection to the seasons.
3 methodologies
The Moon's Phases
Students will observe and explain the predictable pattern of the Moon's phases.
3 methodologies
Eclipses: Sun, Earth, and Moon Alignment
Students will learn about solar and lunar eclipses and the conditions required for them to occur.
3 methodologies
Tides and the Moon's Gravity
Students will investigate the gravitational influence of the Moon on Earth's tides.
3 methodologies