Instructor Name: Heather Cooper

Grade Level(s): 3rd

Content Area(s): Science

Curriculum State Standard(s):

Goal 1.1: Understand Systems, Order, and Organization
3.S.1.1.1: Label the parts of a system

Goal 1.6: Understand Scientific Inquiry and Develop Critical Thinking Skills

3.S.1.6.3: Use appropriate tools and techniques to gather and display data

Objectives:

Students will:

 Participate with hands-on instruction

 Follow instructions on-screen
 Label parts of the solar system
 Memorize names and order of planets
 Identify answers in discussion
 Create replica drawings of planets
 Use imagination to create their own planet with relevant facts

Materials/Equipment needed:

 Planet books (Pre-made)

 Crayons
 Computer for PowerPoint
 ACTIVITY LESSON NAME: The Planets in Our Solar System (And Pluto!)

Procedure Time

Part 1: What is a planet? 5 min

1. Have volunteers try to name all the planets in order
2. Discuss what makes a planet
3. Discuss Pluto and dwarf planets
Part 2: How do we make a planet book? 5 min
1. Introduce planet book (pre-made)
2. Inform students how planet book will be filled out
 Each page has a blank spot for planet drawing
 There are 3 questions for each planet that needs to be
answered; answers can be found on each slide and
will be provided during planet discussions
 Students will provide 1-3 favorite facts on planet
3. Explain “My Planet” activity
 Students get the chance to create their own planet on
the last page of the planet book
Part 3: Why are the planets interesting? 20 min
1. Briefly discuss each planet, providing answers to questions in
planet book
2. Give time for students to draw planet replica with provided crayons
3. Each student will create their own planet with planet facts
Part 4: Check for Understanding 5 min
1. Choose random questions from planet book for students to answer
2. Ask for volunteers to share their own planet

Method of Evaluation:
 Check for understanding with questions from planet books
 Watch participation
 Observe students as they fill out their planet book (Did they share resources? Were they
following directions? Did they answer questions appropriately?)
 Active listening during discussion portion
 Willingness to volunteer during discussion

Notes for next time: