Solar System
Scholastic Science Readers Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
An introduction to the solar system describes each of its nine planets and discusses asteroids, comets, and space exploration. The book includes time-saving features, step-by-step directions, and projects using classroom materials. Children explore, investigate, and create while engaging with the scientific method. They differentiate between an experiment, exhibit, and demonstration, and relate scientific concepts to everyday life. Projects include creating clay asteroids, making paper comets, engaging in a comet fact-finding challenge, and maintaining an illustrated journal of the solar sky.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What planet in the solar system would you like to visit and why?
How do you think it feels to float in space?
What are some differences between Earth and other planets you learned from the book?
Why do you think the sun is important to our solar system?
If you could name a new planet, what would you call it and what would it look like?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a globe or any spherical object to visually explain the orbits and rotation of planets around the sun.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite planet and explain its features. This helps deepen their understanding and retention.
Watch a short documentary or educational video about the solar system to complement the knowledge from the book.
Create a simple DIY telescope using household materials to spark excitement about stargazing and exploring the night sky.
Discuss the importance of space exploration and how it helps us learn about our universe. This can broaden their perspective on scientific advancements.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity about the universe
Explanation: The book 'Solar System' by Linda Milliken invites young readers to explore the vastness and diversity of our solar system, cultivating a sense of wonder and curiosity.
Real-World Application: This innate curiosity can lead children to explore other educational subjects with enthusiasm, boosting their overall love for learning.
Example Lesson: Understanding scale and perspective
Explanation: Through illustrations and comparisons, the book helps children grasp the size of planets relative to each other and their distances from the sun.
Real-World Application: Learning about scale and perspective aids children in subjects like mathematics and science, enhancing their cognitive and problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Respect for science and facts
Explanation: By presenting factual information about the solar system, the book fosters a respect for science and the importance of factual knowledge.
Real-World Application: This respect for science can encourage children to seek out evidence-based answers and foster a critical thinking mindset in everyday life.
Example Lesson: Environmental awareness
Explanation: Discussing the conditions on different planets highlights the uniqueness and fragility of Earth's environment.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge by participating in environmental conservation efforts and understanding the impact of human actions on our planet.