2: Lunar Phases – A Simple Scientific Model

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Astronomy is sometimes called ‘the oldest science’, certainly it is a natural focus for children of all ages. The sky is always above us, and children point up asking, ‘What’s it made of?’, ‘How far away is it?’, ‘Where does the Sun go at night?’, and a host of other questions. Parents are sometimes overwhelmed or frustrated by these questions, but as teachers, we must welcome them.

For young children, the Moon is an excellent place to begin. Even very young children are attracted to the Moon because it is the largest, brightest object in the night sky and immediately draws everyone’s attention; not only because it is bright and beautiful, but also because it changes shape. These changes in shape are called Lunar Phases, and you can see them listed in the illustration below.

2.1: Making a Moon Phase Map
Our next student activity will be constructing a model of the lunar phases, but before we do this, let’s review the scientific facts you need to know in order to run this successful STEM activity in your classroom. As I mentioned in the introduction, you don’t need a vast knowledge of facts at your disposal to teach astronomy successfully as a STEM activity in any elementary classroom. You probably already know most of these things, but it is helpful to review them before we begin.