Gummy Bears®
Invade The Solar System!

Standard I

Students will understand the scientific evidence that supports theories that explain how the universe and solar system developed.

Objective 02

Relate the structure and composition of the solar system to the processes that exist in the universe.

Indicator f

Relate the structure of the solar system to the forces acting upon it.

Intended Learning Outcomes:

  1. Use Science Process and Thinking Skills
    1. Observe objects, events and patterns and record both qualitative and quantitative information.
    2. Construct models, simulations and metaphors to describe and explain natural phenomena.
    3. Use mathematics as a precise method for showing relationships.
  2. Demonstrate Understanding of Science Concepts, Principles and Systems
    1. Know and explain science information specified for the subject being studied.
  3. Communicate Effectively Using Science Language and Reasoning
    1. Use proper English in oral and written reports.

Activity Description:

Overview:
Students will use Gummy Bears® to demonstrate the distances between objects in the Solar System.

Activity Duration: 50 minutes

Materials: (per student)

  • 40 Gummy Bears
  • Ruler
  • Drawing compass
  • Colored pencils/markers
  • Calculator
  • Approx. 24" wide paper--even 3 sheets of notebook paper taped together works or
    the free paper textbook covers that advertisers send to schools.

Background Information:
Students need to understand that distances between planets in our solar system are large. This activity is designed to help students visualize how large these distances are. A scale model will be created to help visualize the huge distances. The scale is based on the AU, or Astronomical Unit. One AU equals the distance from Earth to the sun (Sol), or 149,600,000 km.

Instructions:

  1. Provide each student with the chart showing the distances and diameters of the objects in our Solar System.
  2. Give the instruction page to each student.
  3. Obtain materials

Summary of Learning:

Assessment:

Students should complete the questions and observation page. Check their answers with those which should be expected.