Energy and the Solar System

MODULE # 2

Module Title: Explaining the Motion of Objects in the Solar System Due to the Flow of Energy.

Estimated time to complete: 4 hours

Module objectives:

Students learn that the location and motion of most objects in the solar system influence events on Earth.
Students learn to explain that these events are due to the flow of energy.
Students explain why days are longer in the summer and shorter in the winter.
Students explain why the sunís daily path changes during the year.
Students explain the order of the moon phases from one full moon to the next.

Concept(s) learned in this module:

Phases of the moon are determined by its position relative to the earth and sun.
The revolution of the Earth and objects in the solar system around the Sun accounts for seasonal variations and patterns.
Energy is distributed over the solar system.

Standards addressed in this module:

MSPP Standard (2.8.9, 2.8.10, 2.8.11)
MLO (2.5,2.6)

Technology-enhanced instructional strategies utilized in this module:

Teleresearch, telecollaboration, computer-based simulations, technology- enhanced demonstrations/experiments, parallel problem solving, advanced web search strategies, and "Ask the Expert".

MODULE OVERVIEW

Components	Brief description of module activities	Student Grouping	Materials/Technology
Engagement	Find web sites to show: 1)phases of the moon 2) path of the sun as it changes during the year.	Small groups	Internet URL's Simulations
Exploration	What influences does the flow of energy have in our solar system? Give examples of what occurs on Earth. Observe and record on chart.	Small groups or pairs	Technology enhanced experiments
Explanation	Write a research paper about the changing events during moon phases and changing path of the sun. Discussion of research.	Individual or whole class	Word processor, email
Extension	If the Earth were tilted an extra 15 degrees by some event, what changes would or would not take place on Earth?	Pairs or small groups	Information exchanges; "Ask an Expert" (FAQ)
Evaluation	A rubric will be developed for this module to score the research paper	Individual

Expected module outcomes: Students understand that the motion and flow of energy from the sun changes the Earthís conditions and that the phases of the moon move in a regular and predictable pattern.

Performance-based assessment of module outcomes: Research paper scored using rubrics developed for this module.

Unit Flow Chart Unit Description Module 1 2

Unit Flow Chart
Unit Description
Module 1 2