Challenge 059 · Ages 8–16
Solar System Model
Create a scaled model.
Recommended Guided Learning Time: 3 hours
Learners may require additional or fewer hours depending on age, prior experience, pace and the level of development they choose to take their project to.
Primary STEAM area
Science
The Challenge
What will your learner investigate?
Can you create a scaled model. and explain the choices that make your solution effective?
Learning outcomes
- Investigate the scientific idea at the centre of the project.
- Make predictions, observations or measurements using an appropriate method.
- Use evidence to explain findings and identify improvements or further questions.
Connected learning
Science: space and planetary systems; Mathematics: scale, ratio and distance; Art: model making; Geography: Earth in space.
Dream Areas
Prepare for this Challenge
What you'll need
Here's what may be useful for completing this activity. Requirements may vary depending on the learner, activity format and equipment available.
Materials & consumables
- Foam balls or card spheres in varied sizes
- paint
- string
- labels
- scale chart.
Equipment, tools & software
- Calculator
- ruler
- measuring tape
- reliable solar-system size and distance references.
Safety & preparation
- Select and state whether the model is to scale for planetary size, distance or both
- explain if a single practical scale is not possible.
These preparation notes support planning and do not replace a project-specific risk assessment or appropriate adult supervision.