Presentation of Learning: Sun, Moon, and Stars

iLEAD Exploration 1st grader Dean Horton has always been fascinated with science and space. Because 1st grade science standards highlight space systems, this was a perfect opportunity to explore further.

For this project, Dean was guided by the TinkerActive 1st Grade Science Workbook, which created a fantastic learning space that was structured but also allowed for creativity and exploration. Dean was able to use his knowledge, apply cause and effect, and put what he’d learned to the test.

One activity he especially enjoyed involved testing how meteors create craters. He learned how to create his own craters through an experiment and then recorded his observations. He was surprised at how the sand shifted when he dropped the rocks. He discovered that the harder he threw the rocks, the greater the impact in creating a crater. It wasn’t just the size and weight of the rock but also the force that made a difference.

During this project, Dean learned about the constellations as well. One of the challenges he faced was actually finding the constellations in the night sky. It required time and patience. Depending on the clarity of the night sky, the formations can be difficult to find. He learned it was helpful to look at photos of constellations in advance. This later helped him to identify the stars in the sky. After his research was completed, Dean designed his own constellation using household materials.

Overall, Dean is a curious learner. He is inquisitive and wonders about the world around him. This project provided an opportunity to explore his curiosity. His advice to other learners: “Have fun and be creative! Being patient helps too.”

Dean’s project: Sun, Moon, & Stars:

TinkerActive Workbooks