How are we connected to the patterns we see in the sky and space? Unit Summary Humans have always been driven by noticing, recording, and understanding patterns and by trying to figure out how we fit within much larger systems. In this unit, students begin observing the repeating biannual pattern of the Sun setting perfectly aligned between buildings in New York City along particular streets and then try to explain additional patterns in the sky that they and others have observed. Students draw on their own experiences and the stories of family or community members to brainstorm a list of patterns in the sky. And listen to a series of podcasts highlighting indigenous astronomies from around the world that emphasize how patterns in the sky set the rhythms for their lives, their communities, and all life on Earth, and these are added to their growing list of related phenomena (other patterns in the sky people have observed). In the first two lesson sets (Lessons 1û5 and 6û7), students develop models for the Earth-Sun and Earth-Sun-Moon systems that explain some of the patterns in the sky that they have identified, including seasons, eclipses, and lunar phases. In the third lesson set (Lessons 8û12), students investigate a series of related phenomena motivated by their questions and ideas for investigations. In the final lesson set (Lessons 13û17), students explore the remaining questions on their Driving Question Board, related to planets and other objects farther out in space (beyond the stars they can see with the unaided eye). Most supplies are included with this kit. Please refer to the link below for instructions and printable materials. Please note: Consumables are not provided. https://www.openscied.org/instructional-materials/8-4-earth-in-space/.