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Winning Lesson Plan

Tasty Constellations

Subject: Space Science
Grade: 3-5

Brief Description

Students research a constellation and create a model of it using marshmallows as stars.

Objectives

Students recognize that constellations are groups of stars, make a model of one constellation, and report on that constellation.

Keywords

constellation, astronomy

Materials Needed

  • resources about constellations (Looking at Space, by Ian Graham, has good information.)
  • overhead projector
  • large index cards
  • pencils
  • large sheets of black paper
  • glue
  • small marshmallows
  • chalk

Lesson Plan

  • Define astronomy and explain the role of astronomers. Then tell students they are going to be astronomers for the day.
  • Read a book that explains what constellations are. Brainstorm with students questions about constellations, and record all the questions on the overhead. After recording all the questions, discuss which questions deal with constellations, not just stars in general. Place a star next to the questions that would be good to consider when researching a constellation.
  • Tell students that they will research a constellation by answering some of the questions that are starred and then make a model of the constellation.
  • Arrange students into groups and have them use print or online resources to complete their research. Ask them to record the results of their research on index cards.
  • When the research is complete, have students create a model of the constellation. Ask them to draw the constellation in pencil on the black paper, glue on marshmallows for stars, and trace the picture with chalk to connect the stars.
  • When the research and models are complete, invite students to present their findings to the class. Attach index cards containing research information to each model, and hang the project from the ceiling for daytime stargazing!

Assessment

Grade students' models and research.

Lesson Plan Source

Submitted By

Sandy Wiedmeyer, ([email protected]) Boulder Bluff Elementary, Goose Creek, South Carolina


As our highlighted lesson, the submitter was awarded a $50 honorarium. See our guidelines to submit yours!

02/09/2001
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