Lesson 218 • By Mary Lou Mejeur (Expanded Version) Grade Level: Preschool, Kindergarten, 1st–2nd Grade
Learning Objectives
Students will:
Understand why stars are difficult to see during the daytime.
Observe how darkness makes stars appear brighter.
Review basic characteristics of stars, planets, and constellations.
Identify familiar constellations such as the Big Dipper and Little Dipper.
Experience a simulated “space night” in a safe, controlled environment.
Build wonder and enthusiasm for astronomy.
Materials
A room that can be made completely dark
Stars (glow-in-the-dark stars, foil cutouts, or white paper stars)
Constellations: Big Dipper, Little Dipper, plus optional others (Orion, Cassiopeia, etc.)
Paper or cutout planets arranged in solar system order
Tape or removable adhesive
Single overhead light or lamp (representing the sun)
Preparation
Place stars on one wall, creating a night sky.
Arrange planets in order from the sun (Mercury → Neptune).
Clearly mark constellations:
Big Dipper
Little Dipper
(Optional) Orion, Cassiopeia, Scorpio
Ensure the room can go fully dark and that students can stand or sit safely.
Practice turning the light on/off smoothly.
Activity Flow
1. Entering the “Sky Room” (Lights On)
Bring children into the room with the light on.
Explain:
“In our space unit, we learned about stars, planets, and constellations. Today, we’re going to see what the sky looks like when the sun is shining… and when it’s completely dark.”
Ask:
“Why can’t we see the stars very well right now?”
“Where are the stars during the day?”
Expected answer:
“The sun is too bright.”
“The stars are still there — we just can’t see them!”
This reinforces the concept of daylight brightness and sunlight scattering.
2. Lights Off: Night Sky Reveal
Turn the light off.
Pause for the “oohs” and “ahhs.” Let them take in the glowing stars.
Tell them:
“Now the light of the sun is gone. What can you see? What looks brighter now?”
Ask:
“Do the stars look the same as before?”
“Why are the stars bright now?”
“Why can’t we see planets as well as stars?”
Explain in simple terms:
Stars make their own light.
Planets do not make their own light—they reflect light.
That’s why stars appear brighter in the dark.
3. Constellation Hunt
Invite children to point out familiar constellations:
Big Dipper
Little Dipper
Any others you added
Help them trace the shapes with their fingers.
Ask:
“Are all stars the same size or brightness?”
“How do constellations help us find our way in the sky?”
Older students can learn about Polaris, the North Star.
4. Solar System Review
Have students quietly look at the planets placed on the wall.
Ask guiding questions:
“Which planet is closest to the sun?”
“Which planet do we live on?”
“Which planet is the largest?”
This helps reinforce earlier lessons.
Optional Extensions
1. Flashlight “Star Finder” Game
Give children a flashlight one at a time.
Turn the room dark again and say:
“Shine your light on the Big Dipper!”
“Find Mars!”
Fantastic for K–2.
2. Star Story Time
Tell a quick myth or story associated with a constellation (child-friendly).
3. Create Their Own Constellation
After the activity, children draw their own constellations with white crayon on black paper.
4. Glow Stick Movement
Give each child a glow stick and “orbit” around the room like planets.
️ Safety Considerations
Keep the path clear when the lights go off.
Warn children before each darkening:
“When the lights go off, stay still so everyone is safe.”
Keep the dark session short for younger children who may be anxious.
Assessment
Ask students to share:
Why stars are harder to see during the day
One thing stars can do that planets cannot
One constellation they can name
What surprised them in the dark sky room
For K–2, you can use simple checklists or exit slips.
