The Sun's Yearly Cycle JN for Kids Activity * The Sun's Yearly Cycle Optional Handouts * Observing Change * Student Question Sheet * Teacher's Answer Sheet Extra Teacher Background * Reasons for Seasons Observing Change Overview: Students observe a slideshow of the Earth from space. They notice patterns in how sunlight hits the Earth over the course of a year — and try to make sense of the changes they see. Teaching Ideas The first time students run through the slide show, have them click through fairly quickly to create an animation. Ask, What patterns did you notice? What questions do you have? Next, have them click through more slowly. Pass out copies of the Observing Change handout and have them record their observations and ideas. As a class, discuss students' observations, explanations, and questions related to the changes they observed. Explain that, throughout their Journey North adventures, they'll have an opportunity to discover some of the "whys" behind what they see. (The teacher versions of the question handout, below, can help you guide the class discussion.) Digging Deeper Consider running through one of the slideshows again. This time, help students make sense of what they're seeing. You can ask the class questions on sheet below. (The teacher version includes answers.) If you have older students, pass out copies of the student version and have them work on their own. Optional Resources for Observing The Sun's Yearly Cycle Question Sheet for Slideshow Student question sheet >> Teacher answer sheet >> Animation of the Sun's Yearly Cycle >> This Season Teachers Kids Orientation Registration Search Copyright 1997-2009 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Questions or comments? Contact us.