Free Printable – Constellations and Planets Sort

You are invited to download the picture sorting cards with constellations and planets – learning printables for preschool and kindergarten children. Use this resource with photographs to create hands-on spring and space-themed activities for your students. This resource will come in handy if you are planning to explore the solar system in your Montessori and early childhood classroom.

teaching about space the Montessori way

Teaching about the solar system the Montessori way involves providing hands-on activities and exploration opportunities for children to learn about the planets, their characteristics, and their place in the universe. Using Montessori materials and techniques, children can learn about the size, orbit, and location of each planet in the solar system, as well as fun facts about them.

Additionally, children can use models to understand the phases of the moon, the movement of the sun, and the gravitational pull of the planets. Children can develop a curiosity and appreciation for science and astronomy by making learning about the solar system engaging and interactive.

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When teaching about planets, teachers can provide students with sensory experiences that allow them to engage with the topic on a deeper level.

This might include building a model solar system or creating illustrations of the planets using natural materials like sand and rocks. Students can also learn about the unique characteristics and features of each planet through research projects and interactive games. Through this approach, students develop a greater understanding of the universe and their place within it, while also fostering a love for science and learning.

In a Montessori classroom, teaching about constellations begins with an introduction to the night sky, focusing on the patterns of stars visible to the naked eye. Students then explore the history and mythology behind constellation names, using visual aids such as star charts and books.

Hands-on activities like creating their own constellation drawings, using flashcards, or constructing models of the night sky using materials like clay or playdough, are also integrated into the lesson. Finally, the students are encouraged to observe and identify constellations in the night sky and share their findings with the class.

Space Printable

This Constellations and Planets Sort printable includes two sets each containing 20 labeled photograph cards for sorting.

Use these cards to support a child’s interest in the topic of the Solar System, the Milky Way. These cards would be a helpful addition to your Space Theme printables. Print on card stock and laminate for longer use. After cutting cards, draw with a marker or stick dot stickers to the back of each set – one color for each set. Place the label cards in a row. Explain the difference between the two categories. Invite the child to sort cards into two categories.

The goal is for children to grasp the concept and have a visual presentation to learn the difference between the two. After the child completed the task, invite him or her to flip the cards and self-check. Each card has to be under the correct category based on the dot color.

Younger children can be encouraged to match planet and constellation cards when printed twice. Older children might be inspired to research and create their own books about planets and constellations of their choice.

Here is what’s included:

  • 2 x label cards
  • 10 x labeled cards featuring constellations
  • 10 x labeled cards featuring planets
Constellations and Planets Sort Montessori Nature Free Printable

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About Anastasia - Anastasia is an early childhood teacher and the founder of Montessori Nature - a blog about Montessori living and learning and nature-based explorations. With many years of experience working in a Montessori environment and homeschooling her children, she directed her passion for all things Montessori and nature into creating educational resources. You can learn more here and browse her printables on Teachers Pay Teachers.