The Solar System · B4 Science

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: B4.3.2.1.1 - Explain that the sun is at the centre of the solar system

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

State that the sun is at the centre of the solar system when shown a chart or model of the solar system.
Identify the sun on a diagram or chart of the solar system and describe its position relative to the planets.
Explain in their own words why the sun is important to the solar system, giving at least two reasons.
Draw and label a simple diagram showing the sun at the centre with at least three planets around it.
Demonstrate through role-play how the sun stays at the centre while the planets move around it.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Systems (Strand 3)
Sub-strand: The Solar System (3.2)
Content standard: B4.3.2.1 - Show an understanding of the orderliness of the sun, planets and satellites in the solar system, as well as the important role of the sun in the existence of the solar system
Indicator: B4.3.2.1.1 - Explain that the sun is at the centre of the solar system
Suggested placement: Term 2, Week 7 (Week 19 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: Science Curriculum (Basic 4-6), 2019, p. 8
Transcribed from the official NaCCA publication. Check this page against the source.

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

- Present learners with a chart, model or video showing the solar system.
- Draw the solar system, using different colours to illustrate the different bodies.
- Guide learners to role-play the stars, planets and satellites in the solar system (different learners assume and role-play the sun, the earth and other planets in the solar system).
- Present the chart of the solar system and help learners identify the sun as being at the centre of the solar system.
- Learners are guided to identify the benefits of the sun to the solar system.
Project: Learners mould stars, planets and satellites in the solar system.