Students have been learning about the moon, the Earth’s natural satellite. Before Thanksgiving, we learned about it’s formation:fission, coaccretion, capture, and impact and its surface features: marias, highlands, and crater. This week we started learning about the phases of the moon. Students started their moon phase project (print if needed) this Wednesday. Their job is to be ASTRONOMERS FOR A MONTH and observe the different shapes of the moon. If you forget a day, check out the FARMER’s ALMANAC.  On Friday, the students learned another part of the Earth-Moon-Sun interaction-tides and eclipses.  The students used hand motions-straight and right angle- to help remember SPRING AND NEAP TIDES. Students also enjoyed seeing on video a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse.  Many kids never realized they were actually seeing a lunar eclipse when the moon was “RED”.  Many students were asking when would the next eclipse be..well here’s the answer for you.. 2009… As always scientist, TEACH YOUR PARENT!

SOLAR ECLIPSE

LUNAR ECLIPSE

On Monday, we are wrapping up moon phases with our Oreo cookie activity where students will use OREO cookies to create the phases of the moon. On Thursday, students will be wrapping up Earth Moon Sun system with a test. We will then wrap up the solar system by wrapping up with the Sun. In this mini unit, students will learn the layers of the sun, have fun watching the constellations on our class ceiling and finally learn that stars go through a life cycle just like humans do.

  • To watch the last total solar eclipse, Aug 1, 2008, click here or Google Video
  • The next solar eclipse will not be until next year.  To see the dates check click 2009 ECLIPSE

Animations on Phases, Tides, and Eclipse:

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