The Inner Planets
Students investigate the characteristics of the inner, rocky planets of our solar system.
Key Questions
- Compare the key characteristics of Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars.
- Analyze the factors that contribute to the extreme temperatures on Venus.
- Hypothesize about the potential for life on Mars based on current scientific evidence.
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.
More in Earth and Space: Our Solar System
Earth's Rotation and Revolution
Students investigate the concepts of Earth's rotation and revolution and their effects on day/night cycles and years.
2 methodologies
The Seasons: Earth's Tilt
Students explore how the tilt of Earth's axis and its orbit around the Sun create the seasons.
2 methodologies
Phases of the Moon
Students investigate the causes of the Moon's phases and its synchronous rotation.
2 methodologies
Eclipses: Solar and Lunar
Students learn about the conditions that cause solar and lunar eclipses and their relative frequencies.
2 methodologies
The Outer Planets
Students explore the gas giants and ice giants of the outer solar system and their unique features.
2 methodologies