What Is the Cause of the Seasons?

The cause of the seasons is the tilt of the Earth’s axis relative to its orbit around the sun. The Earth’s axis is tilted at an angle of about 23.5 degrees, and as the Earth orbits the sun, the tilt causes different parts of the Earth to receive different amounts of sunlight depending on the time of year. This results in the seasons of spring, summer, fall, and winter.

Science Vocabulary Cards

Do you need a fun way to review science vocabulary words with your students? Teach Starter has created a set of 15 word wall cards that you can use during your Earth and space unit.

This set of vocabulary cards includes a word, picture, and definition for each. Some of the words included in this download include:

• hemisphere
• solstice
• direct light
• axis
• orbit

And more!

How to Use our Cause of the Seasons Vocabulary Cards

A team of dedicated, experienced educators created this resource to support your science lessons. 

In addition to individual student work time, use this set of word wall cards to enhance learning through guided science groups, whole class lessons, or remote learning assignments. 

🏃 Relay Race

Divide students into two team lines and show a definition to the students at the front of each line. The student that produces a correct vocabulary term first wins the flashcard. The team with the most flashcards at the end of the game wins!

💃 Mirror Game🕺

This activity works best with small groups because you’ll need enough dry-erase boards and markers for each student. Divide your class into 2 groups seated in 2 lines facing each other. Choose a vocabulary card and project the definition for all to see. Give students a set time to record the vocabulary term on their board. On your cue, the students turn their boards around so their partner can see their answers. If both students in a pair have the correct answer, they get 2 points. If one has the correct answer, the team gets 1 point.

Plan lessons for all ability levels with our 10 Best Scaffolding Strategies! 

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or editable Google Slides version of this resource.

Print on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

This resource was created by Bellamy Taylor-Pines, a teacher in Illinois and Teach Starter Collaborator. 

Don’t stop there! We’ve got more activities and resources that cut down on lesson planning time:  

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What Causes the Seasons? Informative Text Writing Task

Use this scaffolded writing task to have students write about how seasons change.

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Sun, Earth, and Moon Task Cards

Review information about the Earth, Sun, and Moon with this set of task cards.

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All About the Sun – Comprehension Worksheet

Integrate science and reading while learning about the Sun with this comprehension worksheet.