Physics, space physics: our Sun as a star, other stars in our galaxy…
Physics, space physics: our Sun as a star, other stars in our galaxy, and the light year as a unit of distance.
The National curriculum in England: science programmes of study, Key Stages 1–3 outcome for Years 7–9 says: “Physics, space physics: our Sun as a star, other stars in our galaxy, and the light year as a unit of distance.” This Fieldbook unit teaches it hands-on, with everyday materials and a printable teacher guide and student sheet for every lesson.
Sun, Earth and Moon Grades 4–5 · partly supports this outcome
Why it's breakfast time in Calgary and bedtime in Singapore, why your shadow swings round the stick, why the Moon changes shape and why some places barely have seasons. Students build models with balls and lamps, track real shadows and read real sky data from cities around the world.
- How far away is the Sun, really? 50–60 min
Teams build the Sun, Earth and Moon to one scale, with an exercise ball, a peppercorn and a grain of salt, then pace out the real distances on the school field. They use the model and a flashlight test to argue why the Sun looks so much bigger and brighter than any other star.
More England Years 7–9 science outcomes we teach
Every England Years 7–9 science curriculum outcome we teach
Every unit matched to England's curriculum · All places and curricula
Three full lessons, free
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