Science & nature6–8 · 9+
The Secret of the Four Seasons
We have four seasons because Earth is tilted!
Why?
Earth doesn’t stand up straight. It is tilted a little to one side as it travels around the Sun, and it stays tilted the same way all year long.
When our half of Earth leans toward the Sun, sunlight hits us more directly and the days are longer, so it’s summer. When our half leans away, the sunlight is weaker and the days are shorter, so it’s winter. Spring and autumn come in between.
Surprise! It’s not about being closer to the Sun. Earth is actually closest to the Sun in January, when it’s winter in Egypt!
Try it
In a dark room, shine a flashlight 🔦 straight down onto a sheet of paper. Then tilt the flashlight to the side. Which light spot is smaller and brighter? That's summer sunlight! The bigger, dimmer spot is like winter sunlight.
Ask Mum & Dad
Which season do you like best, and why?