Modeling the Difference Between Rotation and Revolution

This activity helps students distinguish between rotation and revolution using models, body movement activities

1. Provide students with objects to model rotation (e.g., fidget spinner, coin) and ask guiding questions about movement and center points.
2. Use body modeling: assign roles of Earth and Sun, and have “Earth” rotate on its axis and revolve around “Sun.” Add “Moon” for more complex modeling.
3. Expand to a large group body model: multiple students form circles for Sun, Earth, and Moon, performing rotations and revolutions simultaneously.

📄 5 Effective Lesson Plan Ideas for Teaching Rotation and Revolution - Two Teaching Taylors: https://twoteachingtaylors.com/lesson-plan-ideas-for-rotation-and-revolution/
📄 Earth rotation and revolution activity ideas - Glitter in third: https://glitterinthird.com/2021/01/earth-rotation-revolution-activity.html

• Add Moon phases by having a “Moon” rotate and revolve around “Earth.”
• Conduct activities outdoors for more space, or in a gym if weather prevents outdoor learning.
• Challenge students to model sunrise, sunset, noon, and midnight with rotations.

• Remind students to move slowly during body modeling to prevent falls or collisions.
• Set clear behavior expectations before starting physical modeling activities.
• Use sturdy, safe classroom materials (e.g., dull pencils for foam balls, not sharp objects).

• What is the difference between rotation and revolution?
• How does Earth’s rotation cause day and night?
• How does Earth’s revolution cause seasons?
• Why is it important to know the difference between “axis” and “orbit”?
• How is the Moon’s movement similar to and different from Earth’s?