Earth in Space

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.

Learning outcomes

• Explain how gravity keeps Earth and other planets in orbit around the Sun, and model orbital motion using a funnel and ping-pong ball
• 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 and describe how light travels through space
• Explain how the atmosphere protects life on Earth from the surrounding environment of space
• Launch a water rocket and connect the forces involved to Newton's Third Law

Curriculum links

• VC2S6U07·Core

  Earth is part of a system of planets orbiting the Sun under the influence of gravity, and its rotation and tilt cause day length and the seasons to change. View on VCAA ↗

• VC2S6I01·Core

  Investigable questions and reasoned predictions can be used in guiding investigations to identify patterns and test relationships. View on VCAA ↗

• VC2S4U10·Enrichment

  Contact forces and non-contact forces, including friction, gravity, magnetism and static electricity, can be exerted between objects and affect their motion. View on VCAA ↗