2. The Moon

3.  Develop conceptual understanding of why our moon seems to change phases.  Engage in Next Generation Practice Standards: 2- Developing and Using Models 6- Constructing Explanations

4.  Write an explanation as to why you think the moon appears to change shape.  What do you know about how long each moon phase lasts?

5.  The shadow of the Earth falls on the moon, blocking our view.  The shadow of the Sun falls on the moon, blocking our view of it all.  Planets cast shadows on the part of the moon that we cannot see.  Clouds cover the part of the moon that we cannot see.

6. *What do you notice about size of the Earth as compared to the moon? *What do you think the rods (1-8) might represent? *Why are the rods different heights? *Why does the rod go through the Earth at an angle? *How can we use the Sun-Earth-Moon Board and Maglite to investigate how much of the moon is illuminated by the sun at any one time as the moon orbits Earth?

7.  Shine the Maglite (sun) directly on the sphere (moon) on rod #1. Keep the Maglite steady. Look at the sphere from all directions as if you are looking down at the Moon from space. How much of the sphere reflects light at any one time? (Discuss your observations with your group.)  Revolve your moon to rods 2-8 and repeat.

8. What has your group observed? Do you have any new questions?

10. What has your group observed? Do you have any new questions?

15.  Write an explanation as to why you think the moon appears to change shape.  What do you know about how long each moon phase lasts?

16. TODAY’S GOAL:  Develop conceptual understanding of why our moon seems to change phases.  Engage in Next Generation Practice Standards: 2- Developing and Using Models 6- Constructing Explanations  We did accomplish our goal today, and my evidence is…  We did not accomplish our goal today, and my evidence is…

17. Chasity Collier AMSTI USA ccollier@southalabama.edu 251-665-4684