Group items tagged

Standards: 2.DP.2 - Day to day and over the seasons, observe, measure, record and recognize patterns and ask questions about features of weather. (2.2.1, 2.2.2, 2.2.3, 2.2.4, 2.2.5, 2.2.6) Investigate how the position of the sun and moon and the shape of the moon change in observable patterns. (2.2.7, 2.2.8, 2.2.9)

Extension: Students could use this activity as a stepping stone to study the phases of the moon in greater depth. The next step could be to model the changes of the moon as it rotates the earth by using a flashlight as the sun.

Adaptation: This is a great physical representation to descripe words that may have no meaning to ELL students. Students are more likely to remember the phases because there is food involved and it was studied in a casual setting.

Standard: 5.2.4

Expansion: Use wire and a lamp to help students rig a moon that moves by pushing it so that they can record the results more easily.  Or have them work in groups so that one can move the moon while the other records.  

ESL: Working collaboratively will help reinforce student vocabulary and understanding of science terminology.