LuduminaSP-01 · SP-U1 · Planned
Solar system and cosmic scale
Learning objectives
Distinguish star, planet, dwarf planet, moon and artificial satellite; locate solar system within Milky Way.
8463 §§4.8.1.1,4.8.1.3 / No Trilogy counterpart
DfE single-science pp.44–45 · no Combined Space section. Evidence checked 30 September–1 October 2026. Skills: WS1.2,4.4; MS1b,2h,5b.
Explanation
The solar system contains the Sun and bodies bound in its gravitational system, including planets, dwarf planets and satellites. It is a small part of the Milky Way. Navigable game models cannot simultaneously preserve realistic size and distance scales without carefully labelled separate views.
Concepts, equations and units: Sun, eight planets, dwarf planets, natural satellites; scale distances in m and standard form; no orbital-period equation required.
Prediction, demonstration and game exercise
Predict, observe, explain
Show nested scale views and flag all compressed distances/oversized planet depictions.
Planned learner game exercise
Place object/category cards and navigate a scale slider; compare orders of magnitude from supplied data.
Independent practice
Classify six objects and calculate two scale ratios; distinguish scale model from navigable scene.
Original practice example · Separate Physics
Is the Moon a planet, a natural satellite, an artificial satellite or a star?
Show working and model answer
Working / reasoning
It orbits Earth and was not built by humans.
Answer
A natural satellite.
Exit check and success criteria
Five classifications and one ratio correct; hierarchy system→galaxy clear.
During practice, compare the prediction with evidence and give an error-specific prompt. The exit item uses a fresh context or fresh values, answered independently.
Misconceptions, practical links and mastery
Check these misconceptions
Solar system equals galaxy; every orbiting object is a planet; rendered distance is physical astronomical distance.
Practical preparation
No RP; observational/model data.
Virtual preparation and revision only. Required hands-on activities and school records remain separate.
Proposed mastery
0: not yet evidenced. 1: supported. 2: independent exit criteria met. 3: successful changed-context transfer. Advance at 2; revisit with fresh retrieval. These are not GCSE grades.