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Teaching Moon Phases

teaching moon phases

Teaching moon phases?

Do you wish your science lessons could be more interactive and engaging for your students?

I remember feeling frustrated trying to engage my students in science, but I wasn’t sure where to start.

Abstract concepts like phases of the moon can be tricky at times for students.

But what better way to foster a love for learning and science than with interactive activities, both print AND digital!

Teach astrology in a way that’s fun and easy to understand for your elementary students. 

Students truly grow and thrive when they are able to take ownership of their learning experience and become scientists and critical thinkers

Students LOVE when they are given the opportunity to cut, paste and create a masterpiece of their own.

Say goodbye to drill-and-kill worksheets, and stale lectures.

Students recall information through experience and exploration in the classroom

Create a learning environment where students can freely explore and investigate the phases of the moon.

Want to know the best part?! 

This can be accomplished both with print and digital options.  

Let me tell you more!

 

Moon phases activities for teaching moon phases

 

Interactive Print Notebook: Phases of the Moon 

moon phases

I know trying to plan picture-perfect lessons that accommodate all of your students’ unique needs can be challenging.

But no need to worry while teaching moon phases!  

One of the most important ways to ensure your students are engaged is differentiation within your classroom.

I know that each class varies greatly, based upon not only student needs but class size as well as time constraints.

But the best part is that the Interactive Moon Phases Notebook will work for YOUR classroom. 

Not only will students get to explore the different moon phases, but will also create, cut, and paste in such an interactive way, students will forget they are “learning”. 

What better way than to make it fun, engaging, and memorable for all students!

Students will learn about the Phases of the Moon by creating flipbooks and diagrams.

moon phases

Minimal cutting means low prep for you and easy to assemble pieces for your kiddos!

Use this activity during whole group as a way to review, or as a way to assess students after a unit lesson. 

I love that the options are so endless for you and whatever best suits YOUR classroom. 

Click HERE to learn more!

 

Interactive Google Classroom Version 

teaching moon phases

And maybe you find yourself still teaching virtually, but miss the days of interactive lessons that your students actually enjoy!

The Google Classroom version of my Moon Phases is even perfect for those of you teaching blended. 

These digital science activities give students practice with phases of the moon, all the while giving the ability to practice their skills in Google Slides. 

Students will love this drag and drop activity where they can explore the various phases of the moon, match the moon title with real life examples of the moon, and so so much more! 

Extend the learning at home, by encouraging students to take what they have discovered about the moon and compare it to the night sky! 

Engage students in fun, memorable activities that they won’t be able to forget. 

And don’t worry, I know teachers love cross-curriculum.

So, even while practicing science skills, students can still sharpen their writing skills with a short answer activity. 

Kiddos learn the best when they are given an authentic learning experience, and one that they can actively participate in. 

With the use of a Chromebook, laptop, or even IPad students can complete this digital learning activity independently, in groups, with a partner, or even as a whole group lesson. 

 

Moon phases read-aloud

Moon phases are a tricky concept – so a read-aloud with concrete pictures is super helpful!

My favorite one is The Moon Seems to Change. The pictures are in-depth to explain how moon phases happen with the sun, Earth, and moon.

Check it out here! (Amazon Affiliate link)

Allow Your Students to Take the Lead while teaching moon phases

Students thrive when they feel like they have a voice when it comes to their learning experience.

I loved differentiating activities for my students when I was in the classroom. 

So, if you are teaching in the classroom and have the flexibility, perhaps you should try letting your students choose the method they learn the best with.

The AMAZING thing is that you can teach the exact same content and present students with the assignment option that works best for their learning style as well as capability. 

 

Need Something Sweet? 

teaching moon phases

After you have completed the Moon Phase lesson with your kiddos, celebrate with a fun, but (educational) treat!

This fun activity includes a color and black and white version to ensure you have the option that best meets your classroom needs. 

After all, you deserve it.

Grab it here! 

Use this enrichment to make your own moon phases model with chocolate sandwich cookies! (Double-stuffed cookies work the best). 

In this yummy activity, grab a pack of oreos, a plastic knife, some paper plates and get to creating.

Students will create the phases of the moon by halving an oreo, and scraping off some frosting. 

This is a fun extension that is sure to be a hit with your little astrologists.

Once again, they are creating something and can take ownership of their hard work. 

So grab a pack of oreos and let the snacking commence! 

 

Looking for more Earth Cycles activities?

Are you also teaching rotation and revolution of the Earth?

Check out my blog post here on more teaching ideas for this abstract concept! Click HERE!

I also have a FREEBIE on Earth’s revolution (the reason for the seasons!).

Leave your deets below to get it sent to your inbox for FREE!

 

Remember there are no perfect lessons or activities, just ones that are perfect for you and YOUR STUDENTS. 

Differentiate each activity for your students and meet their interests with an interesting project, they’ll never forget. 

Always remember, you are the teacher your students need and you are doing an amazing job meeting the needs of your diverse learners while teaching moon phases. 

 

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Hey there, I’m Kelly! I I love helping teachers save time with technology and resources so they have more hours in the day to spend with family and friends. Take a look around to find new ideas that you can implement in your classroom today!

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