Moon (Lunar) Phases
Pre-Activity 2



Pre-Activity 1


Pre-Activity 2


Post-Activity 1


Post-Activity 2


Glossary


Internet Resources

Objective: Students will realize that the moon follows a specific pattern of phases during each month.

Materials: Pencil, Blank Calendar

Worksheets (in PDF format):

Procedure:

  1. Discuss the relationship of the sun, moon, and Earth. 

  2. Introduce the terms: new moon, crescent moon, first quarter moon, gibbous moon, full moon, and third quarter. (If you prefer you can include waxing and waning.) 

  3. Explain to the students that they will be observing the Moon over the next 4 weeks. 

  4. Tell them that they will be drawing what they are observing at the same time every night (or day!). 

  5. Distribute copies of the calendar. 

  6. Post a classroom copy of the Moon Observation Chart where you can keep track of the phases. 

  7. Everyday (or couple of days) discuss what the students are seeing. Be sure that the students are using the proper terminology. 

In addition, use the Moon Phases Worksheet as an introduction or extension to this lesson plan.