Background+Information

Children are naturally fascinated with objects in the nights sky. Children will start to notice the night sky regularly. The National Science Education Standards suggest that, for young children, understandings about objects in the sky may be limited to observations, descriptions, and finding patterns. Attempting to extend this understanding into explanations that involve models are not recommended for young children. Instead, the Standards suggest that the emphasis be on encouraging students to develop observation and description skills. Encourage students to draw, talk, and think about what they see.
 * Kelsey & Jaime - you need to add information to this page as well in order to receive credit. Try using information from the GEMS book and/or your textbook. Review your standards page for science to make sure you have relevant information for teaching about these standards. **
 * Background Information: Bailey - your section looks great! Please include source for your content. **

For stars use website: [|Star Website] This website includes stargazing tips, information on constellations, and much more.

Common Misconceptions: Bailey, Kelsey, Jaime.


 * The Solar System contains only the Sun, Moon, and planets.
 * Comet tails stream behind the comet as the comet moves.
 * Comets are burning.
 * Planets are close together or are large compared with the distances between them.
 * The planets are always arranged in a straight line away from the Sun.
 * Planetary orbits are circular.
 * Mercury is hot everywhere on its surface.
 * Giant planets have solid surfaces.
 * Saturn is the only planet with rings.
 * Jupiter and Saturn are made of gas.
 * The Sun is made of molten lava and is solid in parts.
 * The galaxy is very crowded.
 * All stars are the same size.
 * Stars are all white and have no colors.
 * Stars live forever.
 * Black holes are huge vacuum cleaners in space, sucking up everything.
 * Alien life visits us on a regular basis