Academy Curricular Exchange
Columbia Education Center
Miscellaneous

TITLE:  Solar System Bowl

AUTHOR:  Jane Whaling, St. Michael, AK

GRADE LEVEL/SUBJECT:  3-5; science, astronomy

OVERVIEW:  This lesson is designed for review of the solar
system.  It is fun for students and involves cooperative
leraning.  The children should have a good working knowledge
of the information being reviewed.

OBJECTIVES:  The students will:
  1.  Strengthen their knowledge of the solar system.
  2.  Practice working cooperatively in groups.

RESOURCES/MATERIALS:  solar system notes and handouts, paper
and pencils, nerf ball, clock with a second hand

ACTIVITIES AND PROCEDURES:
  Divide the class into two groups.  Have each group
designate a spokesperson for their group.  Give the groups
ten to 15 minutes to make up five to ten questions about the
solar system, using their notes.  They must know the correct
answers to the questions.  When the groups are ready with
their questions you may begin the game.
  Determine which group goes first by flipping a coin.  The
teams will take turns asking each other their questions.  A
team gets 30 seconds to find the correct answer to the
question in their notes and hand-outs.  The answer must be
given by the spokesperson.  If the group gets the question
correct they receive one point.  They also get a chance to
earn an extra point by making a "basket" with the nerf ball.
Have the group pick a person to shoot the nerf ball into the
trash can.  Continue taking turns until all the questions
have been asked.  The winning group has the most points.

TYING IT ALL TOGETHER:  Evaluate the students on their
performance in the group.  They should work cooperatively.

Click here to return to OFCN's Academy Curricular Exchange
Click here to return to OFCN's Academy
Click here to return to OFCN's Main Menu