Unit Benchmarks:5-1 Explain the relationship between celestial bodies in our solar system. 5-2 Classify celestial properties by their properties and relative position to one another and to Earth

Our Solar System
1. Classify celestial bodies in the solar system based on physicalproperties.
2. Compare and contrast the size, composition, atmosphere, and surface of the planets in our solar system and the moon.
3. Describe how the Earth’s placement in the solar system is favorable to sustain life, and compare Earth’s characteristics to other planets considered unfavorable to life.
4. Illustrate and explain a day as the time it takes for a planet to make a full rotation about its axis.
5. Illustrate and explain a year as the time it takes a planet to revolve around the Sun.
6. Explain the relationship between a planet’s length of year and its position in the solar system.
7. Diagram the path (orbital ellipse) the Earth travels as it revolves around the Sun.

Luna
1. Observe the change in time and location of the moon rise, set, and appearance relative to time of day and month over several months and note the pattern of change.
2. Recognize the moon rises later each day due to its revolution around Earth counter-clockwise.
3. Recognize the moon is in the sky for roughly 12 hours in a 24 hour period.