The Solar System
Space video 2: This assembly is mainly an introduction to the Solar System as a series of planets and other bodies. (5 min 18 sec)
Suitable for Key Stage 2
Video
The Solar System
(5 min 18 sec)
(View here or at www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOuHFD4Af9k)
The assembly follows a complete arc, with reflective content towards the end.
You may, of course, wish to extend this after the video ends. See below for ideas.
We recommend that you watch the assembly before using it with your group.
Some of the material may appear to be of poor quality – this is because of the age of the images used.
Synopsis
This assembly is mainly an introduction to the Solar System as a series of planets and other bodies. The reflection encourages students to think beyond this world. There is an emphasis on Newton’s wonder at what he saw through his telescopes, and the awe that the Solar System inspired within him.
Themes
Looking beyond ourselves, and encouraging a sense of awe and wonder.
SEAL themes
Primary theme 5: Good to be me
Secondary theme 4: Learning about me
Additional resources
Download pictures for the reflection, perhaps using images from the latest Mars exploratory rover.
Song/music
The Planets by Holst
Any electronic music, such as ‘Oxygene’ by Jean-Michel Jarre
‘He’s got the whole world’ (Come and Praise, 9)
‘All creatures of our God and King’ (Come and Praise, 7)
‘He gave me eyes so I could see’ (Come and Praise, 18)
‘Father, hear the prayer we offer’ (Come and Praise, 48)
‘God in his love for us’ (Come and Praise, 76)
‘The bell of creation’ (Come and Praise, 86)
Time for reflection
(Light a candle and allow the students to think about what they have just seen and heard.)
Think of all that you can see when you look up into the night sky:
stars, planets, shooting stars…
Think of the beauty of the Earth:
trees, fields, human achievement.
And be thankful.
Prayer
Thank you for the beauty of the Earth
and of all that lies beyond our sky,
beyond our reach at the moment.
May we never lose the urge to explore
and to wonder.
Amen.
