Moon phases
I can describe patterns that I observe of the Moon and its phases.
8,000 schools use Gynzy
92,000 teachers use Gynzy
1,600,000 students use Gynzy
General
In this lesson, students will learn about Moon phases and observe patterns that the Moon makes.
Standards
NGSS:
1-ESS1-1
1-ESS1-2
Learning objective
Students will be able to describe patterns that they observe of the Moon and its phases.
Introduction
Students will discuss what they know about the Moon with a partner. Questions will include:
- When and where have you seen it?
- What does it look like?
Instruction
The lesson will explain what the moon is and does. The Moon is an object that moves around the Earth in orbit. Other planets, not just Earth, also have their own moons. Students will think of another planet that has a moon. Students will also think about times they've seen the Moon make different shapes.
Then, students will be introduced to the different Moon phases: full moon, gibbous moon, half moon, crescent moon, and new moon. Each phase is lit up a different amount by the Sun. A full moon is fully lit up, and a new moon is not lit up at all. They will match the Moon phase to its corresponding image.
Quiz
Students will review Moon phases with 3 true/false, 4 fill-in-the-blank, and 3 multiple-choice questions.
Closing
Students will recall what they learned in this lesson and predict the next Moon phase they will see.
Optional activity
Students can make a chart to keep track of the moon phases (see Slide 14).
The online teaching platform for interactive whiteboards and displays in schools
Save time building lessons
Manage the classroom more efficiently
Increase student engagement
Discover more!
About Gynzy
Gynzy is an online teaching platform for interactive whiteboards and displays in schools.
With a focus on elementary education, Gynzy’s Whiteboard, digital tools, and activities make it easy for teachers to save time building lessons, increase student engagement, and make classroom management more efficient.