TV on a Rolling Cart

Why do different places have different times?

From Mystery Doug

Why do different places have different times?
6 minK1st2nd3rd4th5thScienceSocial Studies
access

Summary

Mystery Doug takes on a real kid's question -- "Why do different places have different times?" -- and follows the clues. Earth is always spinning, so the sun is overhead in different places at different moments -- which is why we use time zones. A quick five-minute watch to spark curiosity and kick off a conversation.

Viewer safety

All ages
Common Sense Media — not yet ratedIMDb Parents Guide — not yet rated

Our rating is a quick teacher-to-teacher guide — preview before showing.

Teaching resources

Discussion questions

Discussion

Doug investigates a question kids really asked: "Why do different places have different times?"

  1. What was Doug's answer to today's question, in your own words?
  2. What surprised you most about rotation, or what did you already know?
  3. What's one thing this makes you want to find out more about?

Quick work-a-long

Words to know: rotation, time zone, daylight.

Try it: Explain the answer to "Why do different places have different times?" to someone at home using these three words, then write down one new question it made you wonder.