Discovering the Wonders of the Solar System
Discovering the Wonders of the Solar System
What do you already know about our solar system?
Learning Objective
At the end of the lesson you will be able to name the planets in our solar system, describe basic features of each, and explain how they move around the Sun.
What is the Solar System?
The solar system is a group of planets, moons, and other objects that orbit the Sun, our closest star.
The Planets and How They Orbit
Eight major planets orbit the Sun in paths called orbits. The order from the Sun is: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune.
Inner and Outer Planets
Inner Planets
Outer Planets
Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. They are larger and made mostly of gas or ice.
These are Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars. They are made mostly of rock and are closer to the Sun.
Moons and Other Objects
Planets have moons and there are smaller objects like asteroids and comets too. Earth has one moon, but some planets have many!
The Sun – Our Star
The Sun is at the centre of our solar system. Its gravity keeps the planets and other objects in orbit and it provides us with light and heat.
Why Does the Solar System Matter?
The solar system helps us understand how Earth fits into space, where our resources come from, and inspires us to explore beyond.
Reflection
What new facts did you learn about the solar system today? Share one thing that surprised or interested you!
Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.
Write down 2 things you want to know more about.
Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.