In Tautoru we are absolutely fizzing with the endless possibilities for learning when it comes to Space and the Solar System.
Through our Inquiry learning in Tautoru we aim to enhance our curiosity and interest in science. The solar system captivates students' imaginations, sparking curiosity about space, planets, and night day. This is a topic that the kids were curious about at the end of Term 3 and actually all the time it seems !!
It is funny, we often find ourselves as teachers very conscious that we don't want to be rocking out the same contexts every year and space and dinosaurs are often what we experienced at Primary School despite being the most captivating and exciting for our kids. They bring a huge amount of prior knowledge and can make many connections across these contexts !
Exploring concepts such as gravity, orbits, and the conditions for life on other planets encourages students to think critically and ask questions. We will also go a bit deeper learning about our star, the sun and the moon and how it impacts our environment. Learning about the solar system connects across many different curriculum areas. Maths is a no brainer with many opportunities to measure, make patterns, learn about time, tides etc…..
Our big ideas and deep understandings for this Inquiry are:
OUR STAR THE SUN, THE MOON AND THE SKY.
The Sun is the ultimate source of energy for life on Earth.
Earth's system is a small part of a solar system within the vast system of the universe.
We order the visible stars of the night sky in the patterns that our cultures have taught us.
Our position in space governs what celestial objects we can see.
The change in relative positions of the Moon, Earth, and Sun determines the apparent change in the shape of the Moon.
The way the Moon's gravity pulls on the spinning Earth causes the environmental pattern of tides.
Through our curiosity, questions and discussions about Earth’s place in the solar system we can make endless connections to our place in the world. Tides and the ocean are definitely front and centre in our local curriculum so lots of opportunities there.
COLLECTING FIRST IDEAS
The students worked in co-operative groups to brainstorm all they knew about Space. Here are their first ideas and the wealth of knowledge they already bring to this inquiry. This task also helps us identify any misconceptions we have.
Keep watching for regular updates on this exciting Inquiry
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