Build a Scale Model of the Solar System
Written by Adi Ackerman, Head Teacher
"Build a Scale Model of the Solar System" is written for 7th Grade (Ages 12-13), and it covers NGSS MS-ESS1-3. A 6th grader who is already steady on Earth and space can use it too, and an older student can use it as a short review.
2 pages in this set
7th grade science worksheet: scale the planets' distances in AU and diameters in km, then place Mercury to Neptune on two strips. Answer key included. Part of our solar system earth and space collection. Aligned to NGSS standards.
How do I use this worksheet?
Teach the gravity rules first so students can explain why planets orbit. Then use the scale model sheet to connect gravity to the sizes and distances in the solar system.
What students will practice
- Students will convert distances in AU to centimeters on a scale where 1 AU is 10 cm.
- Students will convert planet diameters in km to model centimeters.
- Students will place eight planets on two strips and compare gaps and sizes in the model.
Curriculum Links
Next Generation Science Standards
Science · 7th Grade
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FAQ
How do I use this solar system worksheet?
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Teach the gravity rules first so students can explain why planets orbit. Then use the scale model sheet to connect gravity to the sizes and distances in the solar system.
What does this worksheet teach?
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Scale the planets' distances in AU and diameters in km, then place Mercury to Neptune on two strips. The directions on the page read: Use the scales to fill in the table and show your work. Then draw a dot on the strips at each model distance and write its letters: Me, V, E, Ma on Strip A and J, S, U, N on Strip B. An answer key is included.
Can I use this solar system worksheet for homeschool or classroom?
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Yes, both. We made it for 7th grade Earth and space, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.
What is an AU?
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An AU is the distance from Earth to the Sun, about 150,000,000 km. The model sheet uses a scale where 1 AU is 10 cm.
Why do model solar systems need two scales?
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Distances are so large compared with planet sizes that one scale cannot show both. The sheet uses 1 AU = 10 cm for distance and 1 cm = 10,000 km for size.
What happens to gravity if distance doubles?
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The force falls to one fourth. If one mass doubles, the force doubles.
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Worksheet Details
| Grade | 7th Grade |
| Subject | Science |
| Topic | Earth and Space |
| Standard | MS-ESS1-3 |
| Pages | 2 pages |
| Difficulty | Medium |
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