School Shows
With Polestar Planetarium pupils can enjoy the wonder of a planetarium experience without the expense and hassle of an off-site visit!
Shows for schools are designed to cover and extend the National Curriculum. Our large dome, advanced projection equipment and interactive approach relate the awe and wonder of astronomy. Each show is created for the age group of the students and your aims/objectives. Show lengths are tailored to your needs (typically 45-60 minutes).
In considering the following Key Stage study areas and objectives, please note that coverage will be dependent upon the length of sessions and the options chosen.
Topics that can be covered include:
Key Stage 1 - Light and dark (QCA Science Unit 1D)
The following QCA Unit objectives can be illustrated and enhanced using the context of the Earth and Space within the planetarium:
| Light and seeing | Sources of light | Shiny objects and light sources |
| Using lights at night | Seeing in the dark | The Sun |
In addition to the above it is possible to add a session on myths of the constellations (see Gallery page) and/or the Solar System in order to provide a basis for speaking and listening and Literacy work. Literacy support material is also available.
Key Stage 2 - Light and Shadows (QCA Science Unit 3F)
The following QCA Unit objectives can be illustrated and enhanced using the context of the Earth and Space within the planetarium:
Making shadows / Sunlight and shadows |
How shadows change through the day |
Where does the Sun shine? |
Observing the position of the Sun |
Showing how the Earth spins |
Light and different materials |
In addition to the above it is possible to add a session on myths of the constellations (see Gallery page) and/or the Solar System in order to provide a basis for speaking and listening and Literacy work. Literacy support material is also available.
Key Stage 2 - Earth, Sun and Moon (QCA Science Unit 5E)
"A visit to a planetarium or of a 'starlab' (mobile planetarium) can enhance the teaching of this topic" - DfES Standards Site
Flat or spherical? |
Size and distance |
The changing position of the Sun |
The movement of the Earth |
The Earth's orbit |
The Moon's orbit |
The Sun at different times of the year |
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In addition to the above it is possible to add a session on myths of the constellations (see Gallery page) and/or the Solar System in order to provide a basis for speaking and listening and Literacy work. Literacy support material is also available.
Key Stage 2 - Who were the Ancient Greeks? (QCA History Unit 14/15)
The following QCA Unit objectives can be illustrated and enhanced using the context of the Earth and Space within the planetarium:
Who did the ancient Greeks worship and why? U14 |
What has been passed down to us from the ancient Greeks? U15 |
In addition to the above it is possible to add a session on the Solar System in order to provide a basis for speaking and listening and Literacy work. Literacy support material is also available.
Key Stage 3 - The Solar System and Beyond (QCA Unit 7L)
| How do we see the Sun and Moon? |
What causes the seasons on Earth? |
What does the solar system consist of? |
What is beyond the solar system? |
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In addition to the above it is possible to add a session on myths of the constellations (see Gallery page) in order to provide a basis for speaking and listening and Literacy work. Literacy support material is also available.
Literacy Levels 2-5
Greek Constellation Myths and The Solar System and Beyond |
As an Inspiration for Literacy. |
Why not use a visit and general presentation as the basis for a week's Literacy work? Our support material covers a range of NLS genres from L2-5 and has been specially written by an experienced teacher and illustrated with stunning NASA images. Support materials include reading tasks and writing/planning frames that will inspire children either in advance of or as a result of a planetarium visit.
Other School Planetarium Roles
A planetarium visit is also ideal for:
- Summer Schools
- Gifted and Talented Days
- Year 6/7 Transition activities
- Fund raising activities
Shows are available for the full age range within the Scouting movement. Shows can be made to specifically cover requirements for badges such as the Cubs' Astronomer Activity Badge and the Brownies' Stargazer Badge.
The dome presents an opportunity to get a lot of ground covered as it is not at all weather dependent. If you have a small group why not combine with others?
Our Dome is ideal for fund-raising activities as it will fit into many community halls. (please see the Dome page for details of hall requirements)
Why not add flair and interest to events with a series of planetarium shows? In such shows we tend to cover identification of constellations and major stars ("I've always wanted to be able to do that") and some of the lesser-known facts about the Solar System and beyond.
The reaction is generally, "Wow" and, "I'll try that tonight - where did you say I can get that star map?"
The Polestar Planetarium is the ideal attraction to help raise funds for your good cause. Those visiting your event could be charged an admission fee to experience the wonder of the night sky.
The Dome is also a great headline-grabber for local media when promoting your event ahead of time.
- The dome can accommodate approximately 25 chairs inside it for the audience to sit in comfort (this arrangement can also accommodate a group of children on the floor)
- Access is through a tall zip opening in the side of the dome and is safe and easy to negotiate.
- Wheelchair access is very easily achieved
- Shows can be tailored to cater for any specific interests
- Outstandingly affordable prices
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