Here Comes the Sun!

• In this activity, students will build a sun dial to track shadows and tell time. 
• Students will learn that they can use the sundial to find out which direction is north by looking at the sun's shadow at noon.  

Positives

• This activity allows students to investigate topics in science, such as the earth's rotation, and in math, such as telling time. 
• This hands-on activity can be scaled up or down in difficulty depending on the students' age and skill level.

Additional Prerequisites

• Teachers will need paper plates or construction paper, cardboard pieces, a large bowl, clay or putty, clear tape, a watch, a compass, a ruler, and writing utensils to complete the activity.
• This activity is weather-dependent and requires a sunny day.
  

Differentiation

• After completing the activity, try challenging students to use their sundials to tell time for a day instead of using watches. 
• Discuss with students why the shadow changes throughout the day. Why does it look like the sun is moving across the sky? Is it actually moving?
• Related resources include this video about Earth's rotation and revolution and this coloring activity about planet Earth. 
  

This resource addresses the listed standards. To fully meet standards, search for more related resources.