C Curriculum Explorer
Science·Space Exploration·conceptual

Seasonal Constellations

Recognise named constellations visible in different seasons and understand why we see different constellations at different times of year — because Earth’s orbit around the Sun changes which part of the sky we face at night

Suggested ages 9–11

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Learning journey

Your child is discovering the wonders of space — learning about stars, planets, and galaxies, understanding how our ideas about the solar system have changed over time, and exploring humanity's journey into space.

Evidence of understanding

  • Name at least three constellations (e.g. Orion, Ursa Major/Big Dipper, Leo, Cassiopeia)
  • State that different constellations are visible in different seasons
  • Explain that this happens because Earth's orbit means we face different directions in space at different times of year

Assessment prompt

Does Seasonal Constellations know that you can see different constellations in winter than in summer, and can they explain why?

Standards alignment

No external standards are linked to this topic.