Earth & Space
Earth in Space
Students model Earth's axial tilt, seasons and orbital motion at scale, explore the solar system and the speed of light, and launch Alka-Seltzer water rockets to connect forces to space travel.
Year 5–6
90 min
up to 30 students
$490 + GST
What students will do
Scale planet discs establish size relationships within the solar system before students use a globe and torch to model how Earth's axial tilt and position during its orbit cause seasons and changes in day length across the year. Students investigate orbital mechanics using a funnel and ping-pong ball to experience how gravity keeps objects in a curved path, then discuss the broader structure of the solar system: star types, the Milky Way, light years and how the atmosphere protects Earth from space. Working in groups outside, students launch Alka-Seltzer water rockets and connect Newton's Third Law to real space propulsion. Year 5–6 sessions extend into broader space concepts including the origins of the universe.
Curriculum outcomes
Victorian Curriculum v2.0 content descriptions addressed in this session.
- VC2S6U07
Explain how gravity keeps Earth and other planets in orbit around the Sun, and model orbital motion using a funnel and ping-pong ball
- VC2S6U07
Relate Earth's axial tilt and revolution around the Sun to variable day length and the changing seasons
Identify Earth's position within the solar system, describe how light travels through space, and explain how the atmosphere protects life on Earth
Often booked alongside
Physical Sciences
Electricity
Students build working circuits, classify conductors and insulators, compare series and parallel configurations, and investigate how different energy sources (including hand-powered generators) produce electricity.
Physical Sciences
Light
Students investigate reflection, refraction and diffraction using mirrors, lenses and diffraction gratings, with laser beam demonstrations bringing the physics of light into sharp, visible focus.
Chemical Sciences
Reactive Chemistry
Students investigate reversible and irreversible chemical change through real reactions: a polymer reversal, a sealed reaction bag and a teacher-led Elephant's Toothpaste demonstration.
Bring Earth in Space to your school
Tell us your year levels and preferred dates. We'll confirm availability and bring everything with us.
Limited dates each term — one facilitator, one school per day.