Why Stars Seem to Move

Grade 445 min

aligned to Utah Science Core 4.4.1, 4.4.2

Learning Objective

I can show how the Earth's rotation makes it seem like the stars are moving in the sky.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

5 min

Why Do Stars Move Across The Sky? - Stargazing Live, Web Exclusive Preview - BBC

Unknown Channel

Practice

14 min

7 questions β€’ Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

β€œImagine you are watching stars at night. Describe how the stars appear to move over several hours, and explain why they seem to move this way. If you watch a star near the northern horizon for a few hours, how will its position in the sky change? Explain why you see this change. If you are looking at stars near the southern horizon, how will their position change over several hours? Explain why this happens.”

Teacher Guide

Get the complete package:

  • Answer keys for all questions
  • Differentiation strategies
  • Extension activities
  • Printable student handouts