Grade 6 Unit 7 The Wonder of Astronomy
The Wonder of Astronomy invites you and your child to look up and marvel at the stars. In this unit, your child will use their own body as a tool to explore the cosmos, learning to orient themselves using the stars and measure celestial movements. Through regular night sky observations, sketching, and studying the work of great astronomers, they will gain a comprehensive understanding of celestial navigation and the intricate dance of the stars and planets. This hands-on experience will deepen their connection to the universe as they observe circumpolar constellations, the phases of the moon, and the reasons behind the changing seasons. Your child will learn about the lunar cycle and engage in rituals for the New Moon and Full Moon, helping them tune into the powerful energies of these celestial events.
Your child will also explore the rich cultural stories connected to the night sky, including ancient Greek myths and Indigenous knowledge. When your child gains a deep appreciation and connection to astronomy and how they fit into this vast universe, seeing our place amongst the stars becomes grounding. This knowledge supports the healthy identity of the child and encourages reverence for the stories, knowledge, and wisdom that have been passed down for thousands of years. This honouring is healing to family, community, land, spirit, and ancestors.
The Wonder of Astronomy is not just a study of the stars; it's an invitation for your child to discover the magic and mystery of the cosmos and their place within it.
This purchase includes one digital curriculum unit with 15 days of lesson plans and 5 days of flexible projects. This unit will inspire you with beautiful images, clear instructions and exciting project ideas.
And that's not all. You will also gain access to the Wonder Hub, which includes supporting documents, videos, resources, and community.
The Wonder of Astronomy
Learning Standards
Language Arts
Concept: Exploring and sharing multiple perspectives extends our thinking.
Connection: Your child will learn about different cultures and their perspectives on the stars above to build an appreciation for diversity and an understanding of our connection.
Social Studies
Concept: Systems of government vary in their respect for human rights and freedoms.
Connection: Your child will gain an appreciation for Indigenous knowledge and connection to astronomy, as well as the work taking place to respect and honour this age-old wisdom within the context of science.
Science
Concept: The solar system is part of the Milky Way, which is one of billions of galaxies.
Connection: Your child will learn about the constellations in the Milky Way and experience night sky observations.
Math
Concept: Data from the results of an experiment can be used to predict the theoretical probability of an event and to compare and interpret.
Connection: Using their Grade 6 math workbook and online worksheets, your child will work on probability math questions such as single-outcome probability events (e.g., spin a spinner, roll a die, toss a coin), listing all possible outcomes to determine theoretical probability, and comparing experimental results with theoretical expectation. They will also play a traditional Indigenous stick game called Lahal.
Materials Needed
- It's fun to have an Astronomy lesson book like this one from Maplerose which has a combination of pages to highlight the fun and creativity of studying astronomy. It includes white drawing paper and thicker dark blue pages, perfect for drawing the night sky with silver or gold roller ball pens or silver pencil crayons to make the stars stand out. See an example Astronomy learning portfolio here.
- Library books/online resources-Indigenous stories of the stars (find on Resource Hub)
- Grade 6 math workbook
- Chapter book for independent reading
- 2 hula hoops
- Compass
- Ruler
- Sketch book
- Beeswax –or firm modelling clay
- Night Sky app (optional)
This unit requires regular night sky observation. The first week requires a significant time commitment to gather enough data to analyze and interpret. You will want to find a good spot to observe the horizon near your home.
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