Before you introduce the unit explore various computerized encyclopedias for useful animated facts about the solar system. Making planets with paper-mache. I have made paper-mache planets using several methods including covering a balloon with strips of newspaper dipped in wheat paste. However, most methods take too much one on one with each child. Here is a method of making paper-mache and the students can do it by themselves.
Students make paper-mache mush instead of using strips of paper.
I have the students make the mush one afternoon and the paper-mache planets the next day. To make the mush students simply tear newspaper into strips and drop the strips into a big plastic tub. Add enough water to cover the strips of newspaper. It is best to let the paper sit in the water over night, but it will work if you don't. Students start pulling apart the soaking wet paper making tiny pieces.