Following a unit on the solar system, create an interesting mobile featuring the inner and outer planets along an elliptical orbit. Younger students create colorful whimsical planets, while older ones replicate actual planetary characteristics. Discuss the unique physical properties of each planet and the effect of the sun's gravitational pull. Remember to reflect on the reclassification of Pluto as a dwarf planet.

Figure A

Figure B

Figure C

Figure D

Note: This lesson can be created using either Ellison AllStar or SureCut Dies.

Supplies Used: Construction Paper, Glue, Double-Sided Tape, Stickers, Thread, Kite Twine, Fishing Line, Ribbon, Yarn

The teacher will die-cut the materials for student use prior to the lesson.

1. Die-cut the Large Spiral from poster or tag board and punch holes along the Spiral to suspend the Planets (Figure A).
2. Cut an 8" length of ribbon, yarn or twine. Fold the ribbon in half and make a large knot with the two ends. Pull the ribbon from the underneath, through the center hole in the Spiral until the knot is tight against the Spiral. Use the ribbon to hang the mobile (Figure B).
3. Die-cut multiple colors of each Planet using cardstock, construction or patterned paper. Each die-cut on a mobile or spiral will be displayed as a mirror image. Cut multiple layers with the faces of the paper directly on the die rubber. A second set of each Planet will be cut with the faces of the paper away from the rubber. This will be the front and back of each Planet. Follow these instructions to die-cut the Space Shuttle for added interest to the mobile.
   
4. To layer, leave one shape whole and cut highlights from other shapes. Use glue, double-sided tape or other adhesive to layer (Figure C).
5. Tape a 12" length of thread, kite string or fishing line to the back of a decorated Planet. Tape or glue the matching decorated Planet to the back of the first Planet, sandwiching the thread between. The thread should extend from the top middle of the decorated Planet (Figure D).
6. Pull the thread from the underneath through a hole in the Spiral. Place a sticker over the thread and hole to secure it in place (see Main Image for AllStar project and Image 2 for SureCut project).