Gravity and Orbital Motion
Students investigate the role of gravity in keeping planets in orbit around the Sun and moons around planets.
Key Questions
- Explain how gravity determines the strength of attraction between celestial bodies.
- Analyze the factors that influence the orbital path of a planet.
- Predict what would happen to Earth's orbit if the Sun's mass suddenly decreased.
Ontario Curriculum Expectations
Suggested Methodologies
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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.
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The Inner Planets
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2 methodologies