Astronomy is the study of objects in our solar system and beyond. A solar system includes a sun, (star), and all other objects that orbit that sun. Planets in our night sky change positions and are not always visible from Earth as they orbit our Sun. Stars that are beyond the solar system can be seen in the night sky in patterns called constellations. Constellations can be used for navigation and appear to move together across the sky because of Earth’s rotation. Earth orbits around the Sun and the Moon orbits around Earth. These movements together with the rotation of Earth on a tilted axis result in patterns that can be observed and predicted.
Standard 4.E.3: The student will demonstrate an understanding of the locations, movements, and patterns of stars and objects in the solar system.
4.E.3A.1 Develop and use models of Earth’s solar system to exemplify the location and order of the planets as they orbit the Sun and the main composition (rock or gas) of the planets.
4.E.3A.2 Obtain and communicate information to describe how constellations (including Ursa Major, Ursa Minor, and Orion) appear to move from Earth’s perspective throughout the seasons.
4.E.3A.3 Construct scientific arguments to support claims about the importance of astronomy in navigation and exploration (including the use of telescopes, astrolabes, compasses, and sextants).
4.E.3B.1 Analyze and interpret data from observations to describe patterns in the (1) location, (2) movement, and (3) appearance of the Moon throughout the year.
4.E.3B.2 Construct explanations of how day and night result from Earth’s rotation on its axis.
4.E.3B.3 Construct explanations of how the Sun appears to move throughout the day using observations of shadows.
4.E.3B.4 Develop and use models to describe the factors (including tilt, revolution, and angle of sunlight) that result in Earth’s seasonal changes.