Lunar Phases

Moon Phases Lab

Guiding Question: What are the phases of the moon?  Why do they occur?

For this activity we will use the simulation below as well as the flashlight and Moon model in class to find out the answer to this question. 



For the model, place the flashlight about one meter from Earth.
Place the moon between Earth and the sun.
Observe the moon as if you were standing on Earth.
Sketch the appearance of the moon in your notebook from four point positions.
Move the moon 1/4 of the way around Earth in a counterclockwise direction.
Sketch your observations.  Do the same with the moon 1/2 of the way around and 3/4 of the way around Earth.
Place the moon again between Earth and the sun.
Observe Earth and the moon from "space" (a position directly above Earth).
Record your observations of the moon.  Move the moon 1/4 of the way around Earth in a counterclockwise direction. Record your observations of the moon around the Earth. Do the same for 1/2 of the way around Earth and 3/4 of the way around Earth.

Now, go to the simulation activity below:  
http://astro.unl.edu/naap/lps/animations/lps.html

In your blog post: 

Reflect about the various ways we explored the phases of the moon to help us to understand how they occur.
 When investigating the simulation, the moon clock, and/or the model, what did you notice about the phases of the moon?  Why do we see different parts of the moon each night?

How well did making a model help you understand the phases of the moon? What are some disadvantages of using models?

Scientists are thinking all the time about how they can make models of objects that are too small or too large to see:  Can you think of another way to make a model to represent the various phases of the moon?  

What is a lunar month?

Now, after you have finished with these observations and your conclusions:  Go to BrainpopUK and sign in.  Watch the video about The Moon.  In class, you will receive one sheet to fill in which you will place in your notebook.

Extension:  What causes an eclipse to occur?  How do the moon, sun and Earth interact to cause so many things to occur?  What causes an eclipse and tide?