3-9: Earth’s Movements
You’ve just learned about the vastness of our universe and how important the Sun is to our survival. Now let’s dig into how our Earth’s movements make life possible on our planet.
A. Four Seasons
Most places on Earth experience four distinct seasons: winter, spring, summer, and fall. What does it look like where you live during each of these seasons? Do you think it looks similar to the pictures shown below?
B. Australia in July
Australia is a continent and country in the Southern Hemisphere. It is very far from the United States.
Can you find Australia?
Directions: What is the weather like in July where you live? What do you think the weather might be like in Australia in July? Click on the pictures that you think show Australia in July. Check all that apply.
C. Read
How do Earth's movements support life on our planet?
The weather in Australia in July differs from that in the US. Why do you think the weather might be different in different parts of the world? Let’s read to learn more about how the Earth’s rotation and orbit support life on our planet.
As you read, think about these questions:
How often does Earth orbit the Sun?
What causes seasons, and why does this matter?
How do the seasons in the Northern Hemisphere compare with the seasons in the Southern Hemisphere?
How often does Earth rotate?
What are the effects of Earth’s rotation?
Fact Finder: Write down any important information in the “Fact Finder” section of your Mission Log.
D. Hours of Daylight
Another way that Earth’s movement impacts us here on Earth is the hours of daylight we receive. Earth’s tilt and orbit, along with where the planet is in relation to the Sun, impact the hours of daylight.
Directions: Use the data table in your Mission Log to create a graph. Then, use the data table and graph to describe how the number of daylight hours in Washington, D.C. changes throughout the year.
Why do you think tracking daylight hours matters to finding a new planet to live on?
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