Objective

By the end of this lesson, Shawn will understand what a lunar eclipse is and how it occurs.

Materials and Prep

Materials: Paper, pen, flashlight, globe or ball, and a lamp.

Prep: Find a dark room to simulate a lunar eclipse.

Activities

• 1. Shadow Play: Use the flashlight and globe to show how the Earth casts a shadow on the moon during an eclipse.
• 2. Drawing Time: Have Shawn draw the positions of the Earth, moon, and sun during a lunar eclipse.
• 3. Eclipse Simulation: Use the lamp to represent the sun and demonstrate how the Earth comes between the sun and the moon.

Talking Points

• What is a lunar eclipse? - "A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth comes between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow on the moon."
• Why does the moon turn red during a lunar eclipse? - "The Earth's atmosphere scatters sunlight, making the moon appear red."
• How often do lunar eclipses occur? - "Lunar eclipses can happen at least twice a year, but not everyone can see them."
• What are the different types of lunar eclipses? - "There are three types: total, partial, and penumbral lunar eclipses."
• Can everyone on Earth see a lunar eclipse? - "No, only people on the night side of Earth can see a lunar eclipse."