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Space Systems: Create a Model of an Eclipse

iBlocks Project Based Learning Objective:

The Earth-Sun-Moon system has been studied for thousands of years. The interaction of these celestial bodies impacts our tides, seasons, and perceptions of time. In this Space Systems: Create a Model of an Eclipse PBL (Project-Based Learning) iBlock, students explore the size and scale of our solar system and the phenomenon of eclipses. Then, students get to design and construct a model of our Earth-Sun-Moon system using 3D printers, and use that model to recreate a solar and lunar eclipse.
  • Grade Band: 6-8
  • Primary Focus: Astronomy, 3D Printing
  • Secondary Focus: Engineering
  • Additional Foci: Advanced Literacy, Transferable Skills, Social-Emotional Learning
  • Suggested Product Category: 3D Modeling (incl. 3D printers, laser & craft cutters), AR/VR
  • Teq Product Alignment: 3Doodler, ClassVR, Gif-O-Graf, Makerbot, Merge, Ultimaker
  • Academic Alignment: Science, Engineering, STEM
  • CTE Alignment: Advanced Manufacturing, Education
An iBlock matches skills to standards (like Common Core or NGSS).
Here is a sample content standard for this iBlock:
Develop and use a model of the Earth-Sun-moon system to describe the cyclic patterns of lunar phases, eclipses of the Sun and moon, and seasons. (NGSS: MS-ESS1-1)