Important note for teachers: this Anchor Layer makes frequent reference to the motion of the Sun. The Sun does not actually move across the sky; rather, the motion of the Earth itself is what causes the Sun to appear to move. Due to a variety of limitations, we decided to refer directly to the motion of the Sun, instead of repeatedly referencing the apparent motion of the Sun. We recommend that you decide in advance for your students if you will make reference to the motion of the Sun, or if you will clarify for them that the Earth is what is actually moving.

Before starting this lesson, review the unit Teacher Guide for an overview of the Sun & Shadows Anchor Layer.

Set Up Your Classroom

Set up your classroom by creating a class "See-Think-Wonder" chart. You will start the chart today, and you will add to it over the course of the unit.

For the See-Think-Wonder charts, we recommend using chart paper or a space on your board that won't be erased, but here is a blank See-Think-Wonder chart if you would like to use it instead. We recommend that you create charts for the whole class, and record your student's thinking on it for them.