Junior Science: Outer Space

The theory is supported by many models, animations and short videos, which gives these quite colossal or abstract ideas more meaning and allows them to be modelled in a classroom situation.

The literacy tasks in this workbook encourage the students to read for meaning, scan material, select appropriate information and understand keywords. The inclusion of mini-research projects prepares students for what is required in the Senior Sciences.

The numeracy tasks involve simple calculations following an equation, graphing, tabulating data and reading tables and graphs accurately. These are all vital skills in the Sciences and beyond.

Specific Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this topic, students should be able to:

• list key facts about the major components of our Solar System.
• describe the effects that the Moon and Sun have on Earth in relation to timings (day-night & year), the seasons (including solstices and equinoxes), the tides and eclipses.
• explain why Earth is able to sustain life but other planets in our Solar System cannot.
• describe the differences between comets, meteors, meteorites and asteroids.
• label the phases of the Moon and explain why we see the different shapes in the night sky.
• explain what gravity is and why the strength of gravity differs on different celestial bodies.
• explain the difference between mass and weight.
• design an alien being based on knowledge of what is needed for life and the difficulties of sustaining life on other planets in our Solar System.
• draw accurate tables and graphs and interpret data from tables and graphs.
• read and interpret information from a text with a science focus.
• write mini-research projects using scientific text.

Student Workbook: 40 pages
Teacher’s Guide: 64 pages (available to purchase with a class set)
Free* Downloadable Resource: 6 pages
*Available for free download when a class set and accompanying Teacher’s Guide is purchased.