In this engaging game with printable cards, students learn about the Sun as the ultimate source of energy for most processes and living things on Earth.
While playing the game, students create connections that show energy converting from one form to another to better comprehend the connections between fuel sources.
Teaching Tips
Positives
This game allows students to move around, either in the classroom or outside.
There are four possible learning outcomes and teachers can decide which outcome is best for their students.
The playing cards are large and colorful.
Additional Prerequisites
Some of the vocabulary is rigorous, so teachers may wish to preface the activity with a vocabulary lesson.
A printer is required to print the playing cards. The cards have color photos so a color printer will be best, but not necessary.
Differentiation
There is a printable narrative containing background information, so teachers may wish to have a read-aloud lesson before the game begins.
There is a link to a YouTube video showing how the game is played, so the video will be a helpful precursor to the actual activity, although the video is titled "Eclipse Day Fun."
Teachers can choose to use the cards in various ways, especially for younger students who do not yet have proficient reading skills.
Scientist Notes
With very few exceptions, the Sun powers everything on Earth, which students can explore in this activity. The science in this activity is well-researched and cited.
Standards
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
ESS3: Earth and Human Activity
4-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information to describe that energy and fuels are derived from natural resources and that their uses affect the environment.
LS1: From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
5-LS1-1 Support an argument that plants get the materials they need for growth chiefly from air and water.
PS3: Energy
5-PS3-1 Use models to describe that energy in animals’ food (used for body repair, growth, motion, and to maintain body warmth) was once energy from the sun.
Common Core English Language Arts Standards (CCSS.ELA)
Speaking & Listening (K-12)
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.3.1 Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 3 topics and texts, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.
