Some students look at their observations of the world and decide that the Sun is closer to the Earth than the Moon is
Earth and Space
Misconception
Resources to address this
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Solar eclipses (11-14)
A total eclipse of the Sun, a solar eclipse, is caused by the Moon passing between the Sun and the Earth.
It is important to recognise that this diagram is not drawn to scale. While the proportions of the Earth and Moon are correct, the distance between the Earth and the Moon is far too small, as is the size of the Sun. If it was drawn fully to scale, the Sun would be nearly 4 metres to the left and 70 times as big.
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References
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- Sharp, G, J., () Children's astronomical beliefs: a preliminary study of Year 6 children in south‐west England, International Journal of Science Education, 18 (6) 685-712.
- Slater, V. E., Morris, E. J. & McKinnon, D., () Astronomy alternative conceptions in preadolescent students in Western Australia, International Journal of Science Education, 40 (17) 2158-2180.