1.6


 * **

==== = 1.6 Give reasons for noting the days that mark the change in seasons. =

// Summer Solstice //
 * The first day of summer
 * Longest day of the year
 * This happens when the North Pole is pointing towards the sun
 * Because the North Pole is pointing towards the sun, the Northern Hemisphere is warmed by direct sunlight
 * During summer, the days are long and hot

//Winter Solstice//
 * The first day of winter
 * Shortest day of the year
 * This happens with the North Pole is pointing away from the sun
 * Because the North Pole is away from the sun, the Northern Hemisphere does not receive direct sunlight
 * During winter, the days are short and cold

//Vernal Equinox//
 * The first day of spring
 * Equal parts day and night
 * On this day, the North Pole begins leaning towards the sun

//Autumnal Equinox//
 * The first day of fall
 * Equal parts day and night
 * On this day, the North Pole begins leaning away from the sun

For more information, see The Changing Seasons: A Brief Tutorial.



Click here for a lesson plan about the seasons. Click here for a lesson plan about the seasons.

Click here for a youtube video on the changing seasons. Click here for a song about the seasons.