Scientific theories from the past (non-statutory)
I can describe how scientists from the past have helped us to learn about the solar system.
Scientific theories from the past (non-statutory)
I can describe how scientists from the past have helped us to learn about the solar system.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Ideas about the solar system have developed over time
- The geocentric model is the idea that the Earth is the centre of the universe and other objects go around it
- The heliocentric model is the idea that Earth and other planets move around the fixed Sun
Keywords
Evidence - Evidence is information that helps us to prove that something is true or not true.
Theory - A theory is a carefully thought-out explanation for something about our world that is based on learning from scientific enquiry.
Solar system - The solar system is the name for our Sun and the planets that orbit it.
Geocentric - The geocentric model of the solar system has the Earth at the centre and the Sun and planets orbiting it.
Heliocentric - The heliocentric model of the solar system has the Sun at the centre and the planets orbiting it.
Common misconception
Pupils may think that a theory is just a guess or prediction that has not yet or cannot be proven.
Explain that theories are always based on scientific evidence and these are either strengthened or disproved as more evidence is gathered.
To help you plan your year 5 science lesson on: Scientific theories from the past (non-statutory), download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 5 science lesson on: Scientific theories from the past (non-statutory), download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 science lessons from the Earth, Sun and Moon unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Access to the internet and/or texts about the development of geocentric and heliocentric theories
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
