Students can create a star map that displays which constellations are visible during different times of the year. Have students research which constellations are visible where they live during different seasons. Use this information to create a star map for each season. Students can work in four small groups, dividing the seasons, one for each group. After each group is complete, have them hang their maps in the classroom in the order of the seasons for display.
Constellations were studied by the Greeks to explain what they saw in the star patterns. For this activity, study some different myths behind constellations and discuss why people created the stories that they did. Have students select their own constellation, draw it on poster board and create a news story for it. They can share their stories with the class after they have completed the project. (See Resources for a website that gives background information on constellation stories and provides links to other sites on the subject.)
After the students have studied how and why constellations were created, challenge them to create their own. Using star maps, have children create their own pattern and name it. They can draw their new creation on poster board and complete the project by titling it and writing the background story on the poster. They should use the star maps and correctly label the stars that their new constellation contains. Students should share their constellations with the class and display their posters in the classroom.
Chinese constellations vary greatly from those that are designated by the International Astronomical Union. They are divided into four distinct symbols: Dragon of the East, Tortoise of the North, Tiger of the West and Bird of the South. Each of these regions are divided into "mansions," which correlate directly to Western constellations. Have students compare the Chinese and Western constellations and how they affect the calendar. Students can work on this project in four groups, each taking one symbol.