School Based Activity & Teaching

Astrological Signs
Marshmallow Constellations
Supplies:
Construction paper
Stickers
Metallic markers
Astronomy book
Zodiac information sheets (2 of each)

On Poster:
Each sign with constellation to copy
Big Dipper explanation for K-2
Curriculum connections
Concept
Brief explanation (where did the signs come from?)
Photos (signs, constellations, night sky pic) w/ written dates under each zodiac
constellation
Example of Aquarian marshmallow constellation w/ attributes written

Concept:
Earth and Space Science: K-8
This constellation activity can be connected to Sun positionality in regard to
weather units in the younger grades and continue to be useful in the older grades
as more detail is discussed. It can also be used to have older students (5-8)
commit to self-exploration and identity while integrating science components as
well.

Where did the signs come from?

Your zodiac sign is an indicator of the position of the Sun when you were born.
This is why it is believed that people with the same sign have similar attributes in
regard to personality, looks, actions and feelings. There are 12 zodiac signs, Aries,
Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius
and Pisces. Each one of these signs has their own constellations that can be
viewed in the night sky. Let’s find out if you match up with your sign and get
familiar with your constellation!
The Big Dipper:

The Big Dipper consists of 7 bright stars that are visible almost every night for the
eyes to see without binoculars or a telescope! Let’s get familiar with the Big
Dipper so that we can recognize it in the sky tonight!

Curriculum Connection:
The use of astrology can tie heavily into the science curriculum for grades 5-8
when the concept and details of space are being discussed. Astrology can be
discussed in relation to weather because of the connection to Sun positionality as
well. In Science 6, this exact project could be used with additional supports for the
solar system requirement. In grade 8 as well as in the younger grades, this activity
could be connected more to self-awareness and identity. In both K-4 and 8,
developing a sense of who you are is embedded in the curriculum as well as in the
BALS and CCC’s. This self-discovery concept is more related to health and
therefore could be used in any classroom.

Activity:
1) Discuss prior knowledge about astrology and/or zodiac signs
2) Assign each student their zodiac sign (or constellation) and have them
begin making their diorama
3) While working, explain the relevance of zodiac astrology/constellations (K-
3)
4) Have the students discuss which attributes they believe they embody and
write them on their diorama (gr.7/8 encouraged to use mobile devices to
find more information)
5) Discuss how this activity is related to their curriculum
6) If extra time: Read students their daily horoscope
March 21-April 19
Explorer
Takes risks
Life of the party
New ideas
Bold
Energetic
Brave
Independent
Curious
Adventurous
Determined
Bossy
Loyal
Generous
Lucky
April 20 – May 20
Common Sense
Tells it like it is
Loyal
Affectionate
Patient
Dependable
Strong
Generous
Gentle
Comforting
Quiet
Good friend
May 21 – June 20
Smart
Charming
Friendly
Full of energy
Fast Talker
Energetic
Curious
Original
Adaptable
Funny
Nervous
Verbal
Witty
June 21 – July 22
Tender heart
Funny
Family-oriented
Loveable
Sensitive
Imaginative
Loyal
Intuitive
Protective
Advice giving
Remembers everything
July 23 – August 22
Confident
Generous
Enthusiastic
Powerful
Warm hearted
Creative
Intense
Protective
Sensitive
Show off
Courageous
August 23 – September 22
Honest
Practical
Analytical
Smart
Sleepless
Busy
Teacher
Loves to help others
Strong
Modest
Humble
Giver
Intuitive
September 23 – October 22
Charmer
Diplomatic
Sensitive
Idealistic
Appreciative
Thoughtful
Artistic
Sociable
Decisive
Easy going
Balanced
Critical eye
October 23 – November 21
Powerful
Deep
Determined
Protective
Empathetic
Brilliant
Athletic
Focused
Strong
Sensitive
Brave
Open-minded
November 22 – December 21
Enthusiastic
Risk-taking
Adventurous
Creative
Funny
Impulsive
Kind
Idealistic
Independent
Stubborn
Goal-oriented
Honest
December 22 – January 19
Adaptable
Wise
Rational
Determined
Driven
Modest
Intense
Loyal
Humorous
Enduring
Leader
Hard-working
January 20 – February 18
Rebellious
Intuitive
Truth-telling
Brilliant
Determined
Idealistic
Original
Creative
Independent
Curious
Friendly
Unprejudiced
Leader
Individual
 February 19 – March 20
Animal-loving
Artistic
Sensitive
Sympathetic
Impressionable
Imaginative
Forgiving
Compassionate
Funny
Tolerant
Romantic
Dreamer
References APA:
Pinterest link
SK curriculum
What’s Your Sign: A Cosmic Guide for Young Astronomers – Madalyn Aslan
http://www.astro.com/astrology/in_signs_e.htm
http://www.astrology-zodiac-signs.com