Astronomy
Third grade astronomers will take a trip back in time to learn about a concept known as The Big Bang Theory. Students will learn about different celestial bodies including galaxies,the solar system, planets, asteroids, comets, and meteors. Planets are divided into two types: Terrestrial(rock) and Jovian (gas) planets. Gravity, the force that pulls everything to Earth, is the same force that keeps the planets in their orbit around the sun. Students will examine the effects of rotation and revolution on Earth. Lastly, students will learn that the Earth has many layers and that the world map that we see today looked very different millions of years ago.
What You Can Do at Home
Activities
1. Moon Watch - When the moon is visible go outdoors. Ask your child what he or she can learn about Earth by looking at the moon.
2. Take a trip to the Hayden Planetarium or Vanderbilt Museum/Planetarium. This can be an enjoyable way for the whole family to learn about the wonders of the universe!
Websites
Astronomy for Kids - An excellent resource for your child to learn more about our solar system.
http://www.kidsastronomy.com/solar_system.htm
Kids Solar System Exploration-NASA - Sponsored by NASA, this site has a wealth of activities and resources about the Solar System including information about planets, games, homework help, and more.
http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/kids/
Scholastic Studyjams: Inner Planets- Learn about the terrestrial(rock) planets closest to the sun.
http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/science/solar-system/solar-system-inner.htm
Scholastic Studyjams: Outer Planets- Learn about the jovian(gas) planets furthest from the sun.
http://studyjams.scholastic.com/studyjams/jams/science/solar-system/solar-system-outer.htm
Stardate -Use this site to track the Phases of the Moon
http://stardate.org/nightsky/moon
Suggested Reading
The Great Voyager Adventure by Alan Harris - Describes the Voyager space probes to the outer planets.
For a list of science nonfiction books, please click on the link titled Favorite Links and Books to Read. Click on the sublink Grades 3-5 Science Nonfiction Books, where you will find a detailed list of books related to many different topics in science.