The Sun

Space Explorers

How do we look into space and what do we see there? How do meteorites from space end up on Earth? Discover the answers when you handle real meteorites, build your own telescope and plot a star chart.

Space Explorers is a new, cross-curricular workshop that helps develop skills in maths, science and technologies.

What will my pupils do in the workshop?

Introduction

  • Explore and discuss the major features of the Solar System including the sun, planets, moons and asteroids.
  • Become planets and arrange themselves in the correct order.
  • Become space probes and use clues to work out which planet they are programmed to fly to.
  • Look at the distance of each planet from the sun and explore the gravity on planets by working out how much they weigh on each one.

Meteorite handling

  • Handle real and fake meteorites.
  • They will explore the properties of real meteorites, discover where they come from, what they are made of and what they can tell us about our solar system.

Telescope making

  • Follow instructions to learn how to make and decorate a simple Galilean (refracting) telescope.
  • Practical skills will include cutting, sticking, rolling, using a compass and using lenses.
  • Pupils will each have a telescope to take home.

Plotting a star chart

  • Learn to use coordinates to plot one of the northern hemisphere constellations.
  • Explore the names of constellations and use their plots to create an illustrated version of the constellation eg a lion for the constellation Leo.
  • On completion of the workshop all pupils will receive a Space Explorers mission badge.
  • This workshop may be followed up by a visit to our Earth in Space gallery.

Curriculum areas and key learning outcomes

Sciences

 

Space

 

Learners develop their understanding of the Earth’s position within the universe while developing a sense of time and scale. They develop their understanding of how our knowledge of the universe has changed over time and explore ideas of future space exploration and the likelihood of life beyond planet Earth.

 

By observing and researching features of our solar system, I can use simple models to communicate my understanding of size, scale, time and relative motion within it.

SCN 2-06a

Forces

 

I have collaborated in investigations to compare magnetic, electrostatic and gravitational forces and have explored their practical applications.

SCN 2-08a
Mathematics

 

Measurement

 

I can use my knowledge of the sizes of familiar objects or places to assist me when making an estimate of measure.

MNU 2-11a

 

I can use the common units of measure, convert between related units of the metric system and carry out calculations when solving problems.

MNU 2-11b

Angle, Symmetry & Transformation

 

Having investigated where, why and how scale is used and expressed, I can apply my understanding to interpret simple models, maps and plans. 

MTH 2-17d

 

I can use my knowledge of the coordinate system to plot and describe the location of a point on a grid.

MTH 2-18a
Technologies  

Technological Developments in Society

When exploring technologies in the world around me, I can use what I learn to help to design or improve my ideas or products.

TCH 2-01a

 

I can investigate how an everyday product has changed over time to gain an awareness of the link between scientific and technological developments.

TCH 2-01b

Craft, Design, Engineering & Graphics Contexts for developing technological skills & knowledge

Through discovery and imagination, I can develop and use problem-solving strategies to construct models.

TCH 2-14a

 

Having evaluated my work, I can adapt and improve, where appropriate, through trial and error or by using feedback.

TCH 2-14b

 

Throughout my learning, I experiment with the use of colour to develop an awareness of the effects and impacts it can have.

TCH 2-15b
Expressive Arts  

Art and Design

 

I can create and present work that shows developing skill in using the visual elements and concepts.

EXA2-03a

 

Through observing and recording from my experiences across the curriculum, I can create images and objects which show my awareness and recognition of detail.

EXA2-04a

National Museums Scotland, Scottish Charity, No. SC 011130