The Sun is a star and the centre of our solar system

The Earth’s axis is the imaginary line through its centre, from North pole to South pole

A model is used to describe something that can’t be experienced directly

Why we have day and night

Science

In the Earth, Sun and Moon unit, pupils learnt about the cause of day and night. In the Solar system and beyond unit they will build on this knowledge to learn about the motions that cause days and seasons on the Earth.

In the Seasonal changes units, pupils learn that day length varies throughout the year. In this Earth, Sun and Moon unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to use the idea of the Earth's rotation to explain day and night and the apparent movement of the sun across the sky

This unit covers the movement of the Earth, moon, and planets, describing them as spherical bodies. It explains Earth's rotation, causing day and night, and the sun's apparent movement. Emphasis is on recording complex data, presenting findings, and evaluating scientific evidence.

Earth, Sun and Moon

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

What is the imaginary line through the centre of Earth called?

Earth swings forwards and backwards on its axis.

How does Earth move to cause day and night?

It is day time when your part of Earth is facing the {{}}.

At night time, our part of Earth is facing away from the Sun.

At night time, our part of Earth is facing the Moon.

At night time, the Sun goes behind the clouds.

Which statement correctly explains why we have night time on Earth?

How long does it takes for Earth to rotate once on its axis?

Which object could you use for the Sun's light in a model to show why we have day and night?

Which object would **not** be good to make a model of the Sun?

Without the Sun, there would be no life on Earth. The Sun gives us warmth and {{}}.

Starting with the Sun, put these objects in order of size.

Where would you find the North Pole and South Pole of Earth?

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Exploration of objects

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Why we have day and night

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.