What is it
Children learn that the Sun, Earth and Moon are approximately spherical, that the Earth orbits the Sun while the Moon orbits the Earth, that the Earth spins on its axis causing day and night, and how this model explains what we observe in the sky.
Why it matters
This is children's first physical model of the solar system, building directly toward the more detailed space physics studied at KS3 and GCSE, including orbits, gravity and the life cycle of stars.
Exam tip
Be clear on which body orbits which (Moon orbits Earth, Earth orbits Sun) and that day/night is caused by Earth's spin, not the Sun moving — this exact confusion is the most commonly tested misconception.
Related topics
Want help mastering Earth and Space?
Tell us about the student's goals and confidence — we'll design a personalised plan.