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Academic Standards

 

Learning Objective: 

Children will discover answers to questions about the night sky.


Science Focus:

night sky

 


Page 4 skill:

phonological awareness

 

Vocabulary:

gas, astronaut, telescope

 

CCSS (and states that have similar standards):

RI.K.1 key details, RI.K.4 vocabulary, RL.K.1 key details (literature), RF.K.2 syllables, SL.K.1 collaborative discussions, SL.K.2 confirm understanding by answering questions

Download TEKS Standards
Download CCSS Standards

Watch the video

Build background knowledge about the night sky by watching “What’s in the Night Sky?” When you’re done watching, ask the following question: What is one thing you can see in the night sky?

Preview new vocabulary words

Project the online vocabulary slideshow and introduce this issue’s featured word.

Set a purpose for reading

  • Have students do a picture walk through the issue. Then read and discuss the cover. 
  • Then, before turning to page 2, say, “As we read the article, think about what you know about outer space.”
  • After reading each question, pause to let children give their predicted answers. Accept all responses. Then read the issue’s answer to the question. How close was the answer to their predictions?
  • When you get the Talk About It sidebar, use the Ideas to Discuss to facilitate your class discussion.
  • Complete the page 4 activity as a group or individually.
  • When you’re done reading, do the Dance Break!

Play the online game: Space Concentration

(skills: matching, memory)

Complete a hands-on activity: Night Sky Painting

Children use a special art technique to produce images of the night sky. (skill: process art)

Read a paired text: How to Catch a Star

In How to Catch a Star by Oliver Jeffers, a boy who loves stars tries to catch one of his own.