Science is one of my favorite subjects to teach because my students are always so engaged in the learning. When I told my class that we were going to do a mini space unit to review for their 5th grade science test they were so excited. They already had a solid background of basic science concepts but I wanted them to dig a little deeper and practice their research skills. The Capstone® Planets Books - Set of 8 were the perfect way to engage the students in non-fiction reading.
I divided my class into groups of eight and each student in the group chose a planet to research. During the week, they used multiple sources to research their planet. The students got to collaborate and share with their group all of the cool facts they learned about their planet and then together they were given the task to design their own mini solar system.
From a teacher standpoint, this was one of the easiest projects that I have ever assigned to my students because the materials were so easy to order and affordable. First, I ordered a pack of Mini Styrofoam Balls, DIY Medium Foam Balls and DIY Small Foam Balls. Each of these styrofoam ball sets came in a pack of 12, so all I needed to do was order a couple of packs each and I had plenty of leftovers for next year. The students then decided which size would work for their planet and they began painting using the Craft Paint Set - 10 Pc. Again, the ordering was so easy and affordable because the paint came in a set of 10 different colors for under $25. 
I always struggled in the past when using paint for classroom projects. I asked kids to bring in egg crates to use as paint palettes and I would never have enough. Then I would end up using paper plates and eventually their colors would end up getting mixed. In the end, it was always a nightmare so I decided that when using paint, being efficient is best. This year, I made my teacher life so much easier by ordering these Rectangular Paint Palettes. 
Why didn't I do this sooner?! It made everything about this class project so much easier to set up, monitor and clean. This set of paint palettes also came in a pack of 12 and was the best five dollars I have spent all school year! 
The students took complete ownership of the assignment. All I had to do was monitor them because they were super engaged the entire time. 
What solar system wouldn't be complete without a sun? I love this Smile Face Sun Magnet Craft Kit! After each group made their sun we attached it onto half a styrofoam ball. 
After the paint had dried, students used bamboo skewers to "connect" their planets and make their own solar system.
The students were so excited about their finished product. We took their models over to share with a first grade class that was also learning about space. As a culminating activity, the students got to "show what they know" to their first grade friends in small groups.
I informally assessed them as the students presented their models along with all of the fun planet facts they learned. It really was an amazing week of learning, creating and exploring space.
