Inner Planets

Free to teach as-is — the teacher guide, student handout, and slides are included.

Free — we'll email you an access link. Google Docs format.

Objective

I can explain how the proximity to the sun affects the characteristics of the inner solar system planets.

Part 1 of 3

Warm-up video

CrashCourse · 10:17Vetted channel

We don't generate video — this one is by CrashCourse on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.

Part 2 of 3

Practice

7 questions

1

Describe the general characteristics (size, composition) of the inner planets as a group, as compared to the outer planets.

2

Explain why the inner planets are rocky and relatively small, while the outer planets are gas giants. Use information from the video about the formation of the solar system in your answer.

Part 3 of 3

Exit ticket

Quick comprehension check

How does Mercury's proximity to the Sun affect its surface temperature compared to Mars? Explain your answer. How did the Sun's heat during the formation of the solar system affect the ability of the inner planets to retain lighter gases in their atmospheres?

Sample answer included in the free materials

Get the materials

Teacher guide, student handout, and slides — free, in Google Docs format

  • Teacher Guide

    Complete lesson plan with answer keys and alternate activities

  • Student Handout

    Printable worksheet

  • Slides

    Ready to present

We'll ask for your email to send your access link — nothing else.

Teaching a group at a different level?

Where are your students right now? We'll rebuild this lesson to match — including the teacher guide, student handout, and slides, saved to your Google Drive.

Adapt This Lesson