Space Unit Overview

Science4Us makes the study of Space accessible to K-2 learners, building their knowledge in this complex subject through play and inquiry, listening and responding, writing and experimenting.

Space seems vast and nearly unfathomable. Scientists who study space — from astronomers and astrophysicists to planetologists and cosmologists — use complex mathematical equations and elaborate machinery to learn about what lies beyond our planet. Nevertheless, space is a topic that can be taught to even the youngest learners, and this boundless unknown can capture their imaginations.

Through animation, movement, photographs, writing exercises, and math connections the Space Unit helps K-2 students start where they are and build their knowledge of space.

Lesson Modules

Exploring the Universe

When teaching space science topics to young elementary students, it’s important to focus on hands-on activities and engaging visuals. Start with age-appropriate language to explain key concepts and incorporate stories about astronauts, space exploration, and the planets.
Exploring the Universe begins with elements of space that we can see, like the sun and stars. In interactive online activities, students extend on those concepts and also learn about the Milky Way. Students learn to distinguish stars in the night sky from planets, airplanes or the International Space Station.

Learn More

Earth in Space

The Earth in Space module helps students understand Earth’s place in space by thinking about cycles and patterns. As students learn about and reproduce the cycles of the moon and the seasons, they broaden their understanding of the Earth’s rotation and the moon’s orbit around the Earth. Reinforcing these concepts as well as student’s math skills, students perform a number of pattern-building activities In offline learning activities, students do some kinesthetic learning by performing a spinning and orbiting dance.

Learn More

Correlations to K-2 Standards Free K-2 Science Resources Sign up for free!