Why the Sun appears to move across the sky
I can explain why the Sun appears to move across the sky.
Why the Sun appears to move across the sky
I can explain why the Sun appears to move across the sky.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- It is dangerous to look directly at the Sun
- From Earth, the Sun looks like it moves across the sky in the daytime
- From Earth, the Sun looks like it disappears at night
- The Sun does not actually move around Earth, rather it is Earth that rotates on its axis
- We can observe shadows changing throughout the day because Earth is rotating
Common misconception
Children may believe that the Sun appears to move across the sky because the Sun moves around Earth
Provide plenty of opportunities for children to use models to see that it is Earth rotating that makes it look like the Sun is moving.
Keywords
Sun - The Sun is a star and the centre of our solar system.
Earth - Earth is the planet on which we live.
Rotating - Earth is always rotating, this means it is spinning on its axis.
Shadow - A shadow is formed when an opaque object blocks the light.
Observe - When we observe, we look closely and can use other senses too.
Equipment
Solar viewers or glasses, torch (narrow beam), polystyrene ball, pencil, short stick (used match).
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
- Exploration of objects
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
low in the sky
above us
the Sun can not be seen
110 cm
70 cm
280 cm