- Class: Primary 6
- Term: 1st Term
- Week: 2
- Age: 11 years
- Duration: 40 minutes
- Subject: Basic Science And Technology
- Curriculum Theme: Basic Science
- Previous Lesson: Solar System: Meaning, Natural Bodies
- Topic: Solar System: Components And Location
- Content: Components of the solar system, Location of bodies in the solar system (i.e., distances from the sun).
Performance Objectives:
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
- Cognitive Domain: Identify the components of the solar system and their respective locations.
- Affective Domain: Appreciate the order and structure of the solar system, recognizing the significance of each component.
- Psychomotor Domain: Arrange the planets in the correct order from the sun during a hands-on activity.
- Social Domain: Work collaboratively in groups to discuss the characteristics of different planets.
Reference Materials:
The following resources were used in planning this lesson:
- 9 – Years Basic Education Curriculum
- Abuja Educational Resource Centre Scheme of work
- NAPPS National Unified Scheme of Work
- Online Information from solar-energy.technology – Solar System: Characteristics, components and origin
- Relevant Textbooks
Instructional Materials:
The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:
- A model or chart of the solar system
- Flashcards with names of planets
- Multimedia presentation (e.g., video or slideshow)
- Marker and whiteboard
Rationale for the Lesson:
Understanding the components and locations of the solar system is crucial as it helps pupils comprehend the vastness of space and our place within it. This knowledge is foundational for future topics in science and fosters a sense of curiosity and respect for the natural world.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge:
Pupils are expected to have a basic understanding of what the solar system is and the various natural bodies (such as planets, stars, and moons) within it.
INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES:
Learning Area: Solar System: Components And Location
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following steps:
| Content Development | Time | Teaching Method | Teaching Strategy | Teachers Activity | Pupils Activity | Learning Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Step 1: Introduction (Set Induction) | 5 mins | Discussion | Questioning | The teacher asks pupils about their previous knowledge of the solar system and natural bodies. | Pupils respond and share what they remember from the last lesson. | Pupils recall previous knowledge about the solar system. |
| Step 2: Explanation of Components | 10 mins | Lecture | Explanation | The teacher explains the components of the solar system, including the sun, planets, moons, asteroids, and comets. | Pupils listen attentively and take notes. | Pupils understand the various components of the solar system. |
| Step 3: Location of Planets | 10 mins | Demonstration | Visual Aid | The teacher uses a model or chart to show the location of planets, highlighting their distances from the sun. | Pupils observe the demonstration and ask questions for clarification. | Pupils visualize the arrangement of planets in relation to the sun. |
| Step 4: Hands-On Activity | 5 mins | Group Work | Collaborative Learning | The teacher distributes flashcards with planet names and asks pupils to arrange them in order from the sun. | Pupils work in groups to arrange the planets in the correct order. | Pupils reinforce their understanding by physically arranging the planets. |
| Step 5: Note Taking | 5 mins | Writing | Reinforcement | The teacher guides pupils to copy down key points about the components and locations of the planets. | Pupils write down the notes as instructed. | Pupils consolidate their understanding through written notes. |
| Step 6: Evaluation | 3 mins | Oral Questions | Questioning | The teacher asks pupils to list the planets in order from the sun and describe one characteristic of each. | Pupils respond orally and participate in the evaluation. | Pupils demonstrate their grasp of the topic. |
| Step 7: Conclusion | 2 mins | Recap | Summarization | The teacher summarizes the key points of the lesson and asks pupils if they have any questions. | Pupils ask questions if any and reflect on what they’ve learned. | Pupils leave with a clear understanding of the solar system’s components and locations. |
Lesson Content
Solar System: Components And Location
- Mercury: The closest planet to the Sun, known for its extreme temperatures and small size.
- Venus: Similar in size to Earth but with a thick, toxic atmosphere.
- Earth: The third planet from the Sun, our home, with a surface covered mostly by water.
- Mars: Known as the Red Planet due to its reddish appearance, with evidence of past water flow.
- Jupiter: The largest planet, known for its Great Red Spot, a giant storm.
- Saturn: Famous for its extensive ring system.
- Uranus: An ice giant with a blue-green color, it rotates on its side.
- Neptune: The furthest planet from the Sun, known for its strong winds and deep blue color.
Each planet is located at a specific distance from the Sun, with Mercury being the closest and Neptune the farthest.
Lesson Evaluation:
To evaluate the learning, the teacher asks pupils to:
- List all the planets in the correct order from the Sun.
- Mention one characteristic feature of any two planets.
- Explain why Earth is suitable for life compared to other planets.
- Describe the main difference between the inner and outer planets.
- State the significance of the Sun in the solar system.
