Grade 6, Chapter 5 Investigation Organizer:
Far, Far Away
Summary: Your group's task is to draw a diagram of the solar system for a local science museum. This diagram will show the distance of each planet from the sun, using an appropriate scale. You will also create a brochure to accompany your exhibit. This brochure will provide information about the planets in our solar system and explain why you used astronomical units in your diagram.
1. Plan It
Research. Look up the definition of astronomical units in an encyclopedia.
- Use the encyclopedia to find the mean distances of the planets from the sun.
- Use division to write the distances of the planets from the sun in astronomical units.
- Decide on a scale for your diagram.
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Our planning completed
2. Put It Together
Construct your diagram. Use the scale to determine the distance of each planet from the sun on your diagram.
- Draw the sun at the edge of the paper. To find the position of Earth, measure the scale distance from the sun and mark the place.
- Use the same method to mark the placement of the other planets. Draw the planets and write each planet's name.
- Include the scale on your diagram.
Our diagram completed
3. Wrap It Up
A. Create a brochure. Your brochure should share what you have learned in this project. Include the distances of the planet from the sun.
B. Write. Write a paragraph in your brochure to explain what an astronomical unit is and how it works for your diagram.
Brochure completed
4. Discuss Your Results
- Did you use astronomical units in your diagram?
- Did you use scale drawings?
- Is your brochure complete?
- Did your group work together and share ideas?
- Why did you use astronomical units in your diagram?
Review completed
Return to Investigation Page.