Here Comes the Sun!
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Provided by: PBS Kids|Published on: June 10, 2022
Activity - ClassroomScientist Reviewed
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Scientist Reviewed This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- In this activity, students will build a sundial to track shadows and tell time.
- Students will use their sundials to determine which direction is north by looking at the sun's shadow at noon.
Subjects: Science, Mathematics
Authors: PBS Kids
Region: Global
Languages: English
Teaching Materials
Positives
- This activity allows students to investigate topics in science, such as the Earth's rotation, and in math, such as telling time.
- This hands-on activity can be scaled up or down in difficulty depending on the students' age and skill level.
Prerequisites
- Teachers will need paper plates or construction paper, cardboard pieces, a large bowl, clay or putty, clear tape, a watch, a compass, a ruler, and writing utensils to complete the activity.
- This activity is weather-dependent and requires a sunny day.
Differentiation & Implementation
- After completing the activity, challenge students to use their sundials to tell time for a day instead of using watches.
- Discuss with students why the shadow changes throughout the day. Why does it look like the sun is moving across the sky? Is it actually moving?
- Related resources include this video about Earth's rotation and revolution and this coloring activity about planet Earth.
The activity provides a practical way to create a sundial from everyday materials. This is insightful and ideal for the classroom.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
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