Biblical Astronomy: Shemesh (The Sun)

This week I'm going to teach the kids about the Sun, or Shemesh in Hebrew, as it is the center of our solar system and has numerous Scriptures tied to it.  Firstly, here is a fabulous link for educational resources/ideas for teaching your children about Shemesh: http://www.teacherplanet.com/resource/sun.php

Lots of cool science experiments and such.  And for my little ones, I found this arts and crafts sheet that I figured would help them enjoy learning about this super star.  (Pictured below and can be found at this link: http://www.speakaboos.com/worksheet/arts-and-crafts/sun-plates)

You can also put the Hebraic name onto the craft as well for reinforcement.  Or the smiley face.  Or both.  Who would dare choose?!

Also, please do not forget that signs of the end times include the fact that the "Sun/Shemesh will be darkened."  So you may want to include solar eclipses into your unit study.  Here is the variations of Joel 3:15 and several cross references to the darkening of Shemesh (the Sun): http://bible.cc/joel/3-15.htm

What I love doing is learning about the physical properties of an object/concept then trying to ascertain the spiritual truth to the creation.  Could be a fun and enlightening creative writing project!

That's all for now.  Happy learning, ladies!