Free 1st Grade Patterns of the sun Worksheets

First graders learn that the sun appears to move across the sky in a predictable pattern every day: low in the east in the morning, high overhead near midday, and low in the west by evening. This observable pattern is caused by Earth's rotation. Students record observations, draw sun positions at different times of day, and connect the sun's position to shadow length, understanding that shadows are longest when the sun is lowest.

Patterns of the sun are a NGSS 1-ESS1-1 standard introduced in Grade 1 as part of an Earth, sun, and moon unit. The topic builds on kindergarten weather and sun observations and sets the stage for Grade 1 lessons on seasonal sunlight changes. Teachers often conduct outdoor shadow observations at morning, noon, and afternoon to provide direct evidence.

Go outside with your child at three different times of day, morning, midday, and late afternoon, and trace their shadow on the pavement with chalk. Measure or compare the lengths and note which direction the shadow points at each time. Then complete the worksheet to record and explain what you observed. This direct observation makes the pattern tangible and memorable.