iLearn about the two main models of the Solar System.
Scientific enquiry
iiUse models to understand the Solar System.
iiiAppreciate that these models have changed over time. (Framework YTO Sc1 9a))
ivSelect and use appropriate methods for communicating qualitative and quantitative data about gravity. (Framework YTO Sc1 9e)
Suggested alternative starter activities (5–10 minutes)
Recap last lesson / Share learning objectives / Problem solving / Brainstorming / Capture interest
Check progress by playing bingo to reinforce key words. /
- Describe the two main models of the Solar System.
- Explain which model is correct and use it to understand the Solar System. (Sc1)
Catalyst Interactive Presentations 3
Suggested alternative main activities
Activity / Learning objectives see above / Description / Approx.
timing / Target group
C / H / E / S
Textbook J3 / i, ii, and iii / Teacher-led explanation and questioning OR Pupils work individually, in pairs or in small groups through the in-text questions and then onto the end-of-spread questions if time allows. / 20 min / R/G / G / R / S
Activity J3a ICT / i, ii, iii and iv / Famous scientistsPupils develop information handling skills and become familiar with the work of some of the most importantastronomers. / 30 min /
Activity J3b Paper / i, ii and iii / Earth-centred and Sun-centred modelsPupils read about the two models of the Solar System and then answer some questions. / 30 min / /
Activity J3c
Catalyst Interactive Presentations 3 / i, ii and iii / Animation of geocentric model with everything else moving around Earth on celestial spheres followed by heliocentric model with the planets orbiting the Sun. / 5–10 min / / /
Suggested alternative plenary activities (5–10 minutes)
Review learning / Sharing responses / Group feedback / Word game / Looking back
Pupils play a ‘millionaire’ quiz. / Each group makes a short presentation to summarise their research in Activity J3a. / In groups, pupils write an argument for and against each of the two models of the Solar System. / Wordsearch using key words from the unit to check progress. / Pupils revise and consolidate knowledge from the unit.
Learning outcomes
Most pupils will … / Some pupils, making less progress will … / Some pupils, making more progress will …
- describe how ideas of the nature of the Solar System have changed over time and relate these to available evidence.
- describe some early ideas about the Solar System.
- explain how experimental evidence has led to changes over time in models of the Solar System.
Key words / Out-of-lesson learning
geocentric, heliocentric / Textbook J3 end-of-spread questions
Homework J3
All or part of Activity J3a could be set
© Harcourt Education Ltd 2004 Catalyst 3
This worksheet may have been altered from the original on the CD-ROM.