TV on a Rolling Cart

Why isnt Pluto a planet anymore?

From Mystery Doug

Why isnt Pluto a planet anymore?
7 minK1st2nd3rd4th5thScience
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Summary

Mystery Doug takes on a real kid's question -- "Why isnt Pluto a planet anymore?" -- and follows the clues. Scientists wrote clearer rules for what a 'planet' is, and Pluto doesn't sweep its orbit clear, so it's a dwarf planet now. A quick five-minute watch to spark curiosity and kick off a conversation.

Viewer safety

All ages
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Teaching resources

Discussion questions

Discussion

Doug investigates a question kids really asked: "Why isnt Pluto a planet anymore?"

  1. What was Doug's answer to today's question, in your own words?
  2. What surprised you most about Pluto, 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: Pluto, definition, orbit.

Try it: Explain the answer to "Why isnt Pluto a planet anymore?" to someone at home using these three words, then write down one new question it made you wonder.