Movement – Basic 6 Basic Technology Lesson Note (Second Term)

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

1. Describe the sun, moon, and Earth
2. Appraise the effects of interaction between celestial bodies
3. Describe sources of light to Earth
4. Compare different light sources and their effects
5. Discuss effects of Earth’s movements

Content

The Sun

• Medium-sized star
• Composition: Hydrogen (73%), Helium (25%)
• Surface temp: 5,500°C
• Distance from Earth: 150 million km
• Functions: Light, heat, drives weather, photosynthesis

The Moon

• Earth’s natural satellite
• Diameter: 3,474 km
• Distance: 384,400 km
• No atmosphere or water
• Reflects sunlight
• Phases: New, Crescent, Quarter, Gibbous, Full

The Earth

• Third planet from Sun
• Diameter: 12,742 km
• 71% water coverage
• Supports life
• One moon

Interactions:

• Sun’s gravity maintains Earth’s orbit
• Moon’s gravity creates tides
• Eclipses (solar and lunar)

Earth’s Movements

1. ROTATION

• Spinning on axis
• 24 hours per rotation
• Creates day and night
• 1,670 km/h at equator
• West to east direction

Effects:

• Day/night cycle
• Apparent star movement
• Coriolis effect
• Time zones

2. REVOLUTION

• Orbiting the Sun
• 365.25 days per orbit
• Elliptical path
• 107,000 km/h speed

Effects:

• Seasons (due to 23.5° tilt)
• Day length changes
• Solstices and equinoxes
• Calendar year

Sources of Light

Natural Sources:

1. Sun – Primary source
2. Stars – Distant suns
3. Moon – Reflects sunlight
4. Lightning – Electrical discharge

1. Fire – Combustion
2. Bioluminescence – Fireflies, deep-sea creatures
3. Aurora – Solar particles with atmosphere

Artificial Sources:

1. Incandescent bulbs
2. Fluorescent lights
3. LED lights
4. Candles
5. Torches/Flashlights
6. Lasers

Comparison:

• Natural: Free, variable, uncontrollable
• Artificial: Controlled, reliable, costs money