Seasons — Astronomy, 4–6 years
The year brings repeating changes in daylight, weather and living things. Seasons help us notice a pattern that comes back every year.
What seasons are
A season is a part of the year with a familiar pattern of daylight, temperature and nature. In many places, spring is followed by summer, then autumn and winter. The pattern repeats, although the exact weather can change from one year to the next.
Why seasons happen
Earth travels around the Sun, and Earth is slightly tilted. As Earth moves, each half of the planet takes turns leaning towards the Sun and receiving more direct light and longer days. That changes the season; it is not because Earth becomes much nearer to the Sun.
A year in one place
Imagine standing in Lisbon and watching one tree. In January, the days are shorter and the tree may have few leaves. By June, daylight lasts longer and the tree is full of leaves. By October, the days shorten again and some leaves turn colour. These clues show a repeating yearly pattern.
A reasonable mix-up
It is easy to think summer happens because Earth is closest to the Sun. That seems sensible: a nearer lamp feels warmer. But the seasons come mainly from Earth’s tilt, which changes the angle of sunlight and the length of the day. When it is summer in the north, it is winter in the south.
Seasons in real life
People use seasons to plan real activities. A gardener may sow seeds in spring, enjoy ripe tomatoes in summer and protect plants from cold in winter. Animals may grow thicker coats, migrate or store food. These patterns are useful clues, but a particular day can still be warmer, colder or wetter than usual.
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