Moon phases

Science

• The student will understand that the moon goes through different phases, including new moon, first quarter, full moon, and last quarter.
• They will learn that the moon's phases are caused by the changing positions of the moon, Earth, and the sun.
• They will be able to identify and describe the characteristics of each moon phase, such as the amount of the moon's surface that is illuminated and visible from Earth.
• The student will understand the lunar cycle and how it relates to the Earth's rotation and orbit around the sun.

For continued development related to the activity, encourage the child to observe the moon's phases over several months and keep a moon journal. They can record the date, time, and appearance of the moon each night. This will help them observe patterns and deepen their understanding of the lunar cycle.

Book Recommendations

• The Moon Book by Gail Gibbons: This book provides a comprehensive introduction to the moon, its phases, and its relationship to the Earth.
• What the Moon is Like by Franklyn M. Branley: This book explores the moon's surface, its gravity, and its different phases using simple language and vivid illustrations.
• The Moon Seems to Change by Franklyn M. Branley: In this book, children will learn about the moon's phases through a story that follows a boy and his friends as they observe the moon's changing appearance.