Exposing a common misconception: The distance the Earth is from the Sun causes seasons, right?

This lab exposes a common misconception: that the distance the Earth is from the Sun causes the change in seasons. In this lab experience students will start with a exploratory lab to model the distance between the Earth and Sun during aphelion and perihelion. To dispel this misconception, students then engage in one of two suggested labs that address the true cause for the seasons, Earth's tilt. During both of these labs students will learn that the tilt of the Earth causes one hemisphere to receive more direct sunlight than the other. Earth's axis doesn't tilt in its orbit but as the Earth progresses through its orbit the hemispheres receive varying amounts of direct and indirect sunlight.
Resource ID#: 71547 Type: Lesson Plan
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General Information

Subject(s): Science
Grade Level(s): 8
Intended Audience: Educators educators
Suggested Technology: Computer for Presenter, Internet Connection, Interactive Whiteboard, LCD Projector, Adobe Flash Player, Adobe Acrobat Reader, Microsoft Office
Instructional Time: 1 Hour(s) 15 Minute(s)
Resource supports reading in content area:Yes
Freely Available: Yes
Keywords: seasons, aphelion, perihelion, astronomical unit, orbit, indirect sunlight, direct sunlight, solstice, equinox, tilt, sun, earth
Instructional Component Type(s): Lesson Plan
Resource Collection: FCR-STEMLearn Physical Sciences

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