SHS1 Geography · Semester 1 Week 3: The Earth and Its Features

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 1.1.1.LI.1 - Describe the solar system and its constituents

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

List the eight planets of the solar system in order from the Sun, using a mnemonic to aid recall.
Identify the position of Earth within the solar system and describe its unique characteristics that support life.
Describe the non-planetary constituents of the solar system, including the Sun, moons, asteroids, comets, and meteoroids.
Explain the difference between a planet and a dwarf planet, using Pluto as a case example.
Construct a simple model (physical or digital) of the solar system showing the relative positions of the planets.

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Curriculum details

Strand: The Earth and Its Neighbourhoods (Strand 1)
Sub-strand: The Earth and Its Features (1.1)
Content standard: 1.1.1.CS.2 - 1.1.1.CS.2 Demonstrate knowledge of the Solar System and its constituents 1.1.1.LO.2 Explain the constituents and characteristics of the Solar System
Indicator: 1.1.1.LI.1 - Describe the solar system and its constituents
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 3 (Week 3 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 30

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Activity-Based Learning: Using pictures/videos and other resources, build a model of the solar system to illustrate the components and characteristics of the solar system.
Group work/collaborative learning: Discuss in pairs/manageable groups the interrelationships between the planetary bodies using the model of the solar system ensuring all-inclusiveness. I.e. gender, emotions and respect for each other.

Assessment (1.1.1.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 4 Extended critical thinking and reasoning.

Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Use mobile phones - Globe - Models and images of the solar
- Computers - Videos and images to illustrate the system
- Pictures solar system. - Other resources (clay, paper, cardboard etc) for modelling the solar system