The Solar System · JHS2 Science

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: B8.3.2.1.1 - Identify the outer planets of the solar system and describe their properties

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Identify Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune as the four outer planets of the solar system and state their positions from the Sun.
Describe at least three distinct properties of each outer planet, including size, colour, rings, and number of moons.
Explain why no form of life as we know it can survive on any of the four outer planets.
Construct a simple labelled model or diagram of the outer solar system showing the relative order of the planets.
Present findings about one outer planet to the class, using appropriate detail and language for the audience.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Systems (Strand 3)
Sub-strand: The Solar System (3.2)
Content standard: B8.3.2.1 - Demonstrate knowledge of the outer planets of the solar system
Indicator: B8.3.2.1.1 - Identify the outer planets of the solar system and describe their properties
Suggested placement: Term 2, Week 3 (Week 15 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, Common Core Programme (JHS1-JHS3), 2023, p. 66
Transcribed from the official NaCCA publication. Check this page against the source.

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

1. Describe the composition of the solar system using charts, pictures and digital content.
2. Identify and draw the planets that form the outer solar system.
3. Discuss the properties that are peculiar to each of the planet: Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.
4. Search and explain why there is no life on Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.
5. Construct a model of the outer solar system (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune) and display it for discussion.