Observing the Moon
Activity:
Students observe the Moon everyday for two weeks and keep a log at
school.
Science Standards:
Nature of Science and Patterns of Change
Objectives:
The student will make systematic and recorded observations of the Moon.
The student will describe the changing appearance of the Moon.
The student will predict the appearance and location of the Moon.
Materials:
large calendar at school to keep records
Introduction:
Many students are not aware of the changing appearance of the Moon.
The Moon changes from a crescent in the western sky at sunset to a full
Moon in the eastern sky in just two weeks. Conversely, for the next two
weeks, observers see less and less of the lighted side of the Moon during
the morning hours. The Moon is known as a waxing Moon during the first
two weeks of its cycle and as waning during the last two weeks.
Directions:
1. Direct students to record the appearance and location of the Moon
every evening for two weeks.
2. Record student observations of the Moon on a calendar in the classroom.
3. Students should speculate about the Moon's position and appearance
when cloudy.
4. Predict the completion of the calendar for remainder of the month.