Science·Space Systems & Earth's History·conceptual
Why We Have Seasons
Explain that the seasons are caused by the tilt of Earth's axis during its orbit around the Sun, distinguishing this from the common misconception that seasons are caused by changing distance from the Sun
Suggested ages 11–12
Evidence of understanding
- Explains that Earth's axis is tilted at about 23.5° relative to its orbit
- Describes how the tilted axis causes one hemisphere to receive more direct sunlight in summer and less in winter
- Refutes the misconception that distance from the Sun causes seasons by noting Earth is actually slightly closer to the Sun in January
Assessment prompt
If Why We Have Seasons was asked why the UK is hot in summer but Australia is cold at the same time, could they explain that it's not about being closer to the Sun but about which half of the Earth is tilted towards the Sun?
Standards alignment
MS-ESS1-1US · ngss-ms
MS-ESS1-1
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Middle School
KS3.Sci.Phys.SpacePhysics.2GB · uk-nc-2013
Stars and Galaxies
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · KS3