Project based learning activity genially

Our Place in space

Tracking the Sun, moon, and stars

Description of Learners

Grade Level: 2nd Grade

Subject Area:Science (Earth and Space Systems

Learner DescriptionStudents are curious early learners who enjoy hands-on exploration and visual learning. They are developing digital skills and can use tablets or Chromebooks with guidance.

ISTE 1.3- Knowledge Constructor

Students curate information from digital sources to build knowledge, produce creative artifacts, and make meaningful learning experiences from themselves and others.

Connection: Students gather and interpret data about celestial patterns and use digital tools to create and share their findings.

Mississippi state standard

E.2.8: Students will demonstrate an understanding of the appearance, movements, and patterns of the sun, moon, and stars

• E.2.8.1: Observe and describe the sun's position and movement.
• E.2.82: Observe and record patterns of the moon's appearance over time.
• E.2.8.3: Recognize patterns of stars and constellations.

Materials and technologies

Teacher Materials:

• Projector or Smartboard
• Observation charts
• Rubric for assessment

Student Materials:

• Science journals
• Tablets or Chomebooks
• Technology Tool: Google Slides
• Night-sky simulation website
• Camera or iPad

9 Elements of Project-Based Learning

5. Student Inquiry

• Students ask and investigate questions such as:
• Why does the moon look different every few days?
• Does the sun rise and set in the same place every day?
• Can we see the same stars every night?

1. Anchor

• Lesson begins with a short video clip ("Why Does the Moon Change Shape?").
• Teachers ask the question: "What patterns can we find in the sky if we watch carefully every day?"

6. Collaboration and Teamwork

• Small groups track different sky features and share data. For example, one group studies the moon, another the sun, and another constellations.

2. Task

• Students will collect and record data on the sun's position, moon phases, and visible stars over several weeks. They will then design a digital "Sky Watchers" journal to explain the patterns they discover.

7. Teacher Coaching and Feedback

• The teacher meets with each group during observation check-ins to help them interpret data and guide their digital creations.

3. Directions

• Teacher provides a clear weekly schedule

1. Observe and record daily sky changes.
2. Add notes or photos in journal.
3. Discuss findings with class.
4. Use technology to create a final group presentation

8. Student Reflection

• At the end of each week, students record what surprised them or what patterns they notices in their digital journals using voice recordings or typed text.

4. Student Choices

• Which part of the sky to observe (sunrise/sunset, moon, stars)
• How to display their finding digitally (Google Slides or PowerPoint)
• What visuals or drawings to include

9. Public Presentation

• Students present their Sky Watchers digital journals during a "Starry Night Showcase" for families and other classes, explaining what they learned about the movements and patterns of the sun, moon, and stars

Assessment Plan & Rubric

Points

Category

Criteria

Observation Accuracy Understanding of Patterns Technology Use Collaboration Creativity Reflection & Presentation

20

Detailed and accurate records of sun/moon/star changes

Demonstrates understanding of how the sun, moon and stars move

25

15

Effective use of digital tools to organize and share learning

10

Group worked cooperatively and shared ideas

Journal includes visuals, drawings, and/or voice notes

15

15

Clear explanation of findings and personal learning