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Hi everyone! I have to create a unit for my methods of teaching science class. I decided to focus on space science, but it is so board. I do not where to begin and what to focus on. I also have to write an introductory lesson. What are some introductory lessons or activities I can use if I decided to focus on the planets or the moon? Thank you!

Hi Devleta, I noticed you have not filled out your NSTA LC profile yet, so I was unable to determine for which grade you plan to teach your space lesson. Since there is a huge difference in lesson plans depending on the grade band, please provide more information for us to narrow down how we might be of help. Also, narrowing down the content by examining the state standards for your grade level will be useful too. Looking forward to hearing more details... Carolyn

Hello Delveta- Yes, space is quite an expansive topic. I would suggest that you narrow down on a more specific topic. If you are working with younger children, things that they can see, like the Moon, the sun, and constellations would be excellent possibilities. Or, you could focus on how we explore space and do a lesson on telescopes or specific space missions - of which there are many. Good luck, and if you have more questions just ask.

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Thank you everyone for your responses! I am actually writing up the lessons for a science methods course I am taking at my university. However, the grade that I am focusing on is 6th grade.

I recently joint the UK's National stem center. There is a free newsletter than is pushed weekly. The last issue provided a link to new page by Tim Peake who is planning to go to the international space center.
Major Tim Peake is due to go to the International Space Station in November 2015 and spend six months there carrying out scientific experiments. He will be the first British ESA astronaut to visit the Space Station.

This page offers support and resources to science teachers to enable them to use this mission to inspire pupils.

Hi Devleta. How about this? http://www.nasa.gov/offices/education/programs/national/nes2/home/index.html The NASA Explorer Schools Internet Site has a lot of good resources.

Hi Devleta, Let us know how your unit plan went. It sounds like you got a lot of helpful feedback here. Carolyn

Video Interviews from Astronauts on the ISS

Perhaps start with the Earth's atmosphere, followed by the international space station and the history of space exploration, and then move outward to the Moon, sun, solar system, galaxy, and universe. As part of my lesson plans I include a "Science in the News' segment most days for reasons of relevance to what we're learning.

Hi Devleta. This is probably too late for your methods class and I hope it went well, but I just wanted to jump in and suggest you look over your state's academic standards and anchors as well as the NGSS to start with and then follow the links and suggestions listed above. They are all excellent. Another good source is http://www.usna.edu/Admissions/STEM/ I just finished Set Sail and it was excellent!