RPSEC Student Programs for
South Carolina & Georgia Schools

South Carolina Schools

Georgia Schools

Grade 4: SCSS 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7
Grade 8: SCSS 4.2, 4.4

Grade 4 Science
Astronomy
Standard 4-3: The student will demonstrate an understanding of the properties, movements, and locations of objects in the solar system. (Earth Science

Indicators:
3.1 Recall that Earth is one of many planets in the solar system that orbit the Sun.
3.2 Compare the properties (including the type of surface and atmosphere) and the location of Earth to the Sun, which is a star, and the Moon.
3.3 Explain how the Sun affects Earth.
3.4 Explain how the tilt of Earth’s axis and the revolution around the Sun results in the seasons of the year.
3.5 Explain how the rotation of Earth results in day and night.
3.6 Illustrate the phases of the Moon and the Moon’s effect on ocean tides.
3.7 Interpret the change in the length of shadows during the day in relation to the position of the Sun in the sky.

Grade 8 Science
Astronomy: Earth and Space Systems
Standard 8-4: The student will demonstrate an understanding of the characteristics, structure, and predictable motions of celestial bodies. (Earth Science)

Indicators:
4.2 Summarize the characteristics and movements of objects in the solar system (including planets, moons, asteroids, comets, and meteors).
4.4 Explain the motions of Earth and the Moon and the effects of these motions as they orbit the Sun (including day, year, phases of the Moon, eclipses, and tides).

Grade 4: S4E2 a, b, c
Grade 6: S6E2 a, b, c

Grade 4 Science
Astronomy
S4E2: Students will model the position and motion of the earth in the solar system and will explain the role of relative position and motion in determining sequence of the phases of the moon.

Indicators:
a. Explain the day/night cycle of the earth using a model.
b. Explain the sequence of the phases of the moon.
c. Demonstrate the revolution of the earth around the sun and the earth’s tilt to explain the seasonal changes.

Grade 6 Science
S6E2: Students will understand the effects of the relative positions of the earth, moon and sun.

Indicators:
a. Demonstrate the phases of the moon by showing the alignment of the earth, moon, and sun.
b. Explain the alignment of the earth, moon, and sun during solar and lunar eclipses.
c. Relate the tilt of the earth to the distribution of sunlight throughout the year and its effect on climate.