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Grades 3–6Science / Mathematics45–60 minutes
Scale of the Solar System
Students build a scale model of the solar system using everyday objects to understand the enormous distances between planets. This hands-on activity connects mathematics (ratios and proportions) with space science.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the relative sizes and distances of planets in the solar system.
- Apply ratio and proportion skills to real-world measurements.
- Identify the order of planets from the Sun.
Activities
Warm-up: How big is space?
10 minShow students the quick-facts comparison of planet diameters. Ask: if Earth were a marble, how big would Jupiter be?
Build the model
25 minUsing the provided scale chart, assign each student a planet. Walk outside and place each planet at the correct scaled distance from the Sun marker.
Reflect and compare
10 minReturn to the classroom. Students write three things that surprised them about the scale of the solar system.
Assessment
Students complete a worksheet plotting planet distances on a number line and answering comparison questions.