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Here Comes the Sun!

Provided by: PBS Kids |Published on: June 10, 2022

Activity - Classroom Grades k-2, 3-5

Synopsis

In this activity, students will build a sun dial to track shadows and tell time.
Students will learn that they can use the sundial to find out which direction is north by looking at the sun's shadow at noon.

Subjects: Science, Mathematics

Authors: PBS Kids

Region: Global

Languages: English

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, try challenging 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.

Scientist Notes

Teaching Tips

Standards

Resource Type and Format

All resources can be used for your educational purposes with proper attribution to the content provider.