CU 3.02The Planets

1. 1

   Lay out the solar system mat. Choose one planet, such as Mars.

2. 2

   Show the real photograph: 'This is a real picture of Mars, taken by a spacecraft.'

3. 3

   Look together at the color and the surface. Read one fact card aloud.

4. 4

   Place the photograph next to Mars on the mat.

5. 5

   On later days, present one new planet at a time in the same way.

6. 6

   Once several planets are known, invite the child to match the photographs to the planets.

7. 7

   Introduce the three-part cards for the planets the child knows.

What catches the child’s eye

• Jupiter's Great Red Spot, a storm bigger than the earth
• The blue earth photographed from space, with white swirling clouds

Extensions, easiest to hardest

1. Sort the planets: rocky (Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars), gas giants (Jupiter, Saturn), ice giants (Uranus, Neptune)
2. Compare the earth with Mars: water, air, and living things
3. Find a bright planet in the evening sky with an adult, such as Venus or Jupiter
4. Make a small book with one real fact about each planet