phases of the moon critical thinking questions

Top Moon Questions

What do you wonder? Some of your frequently asked Moon questions, answered.

Moon in Motion: Phases, Patterns, and More

Does the moon rotate does the moon spin on its axis.

Yes! The time it takes for the Moon to rotate once on its axis is equal to the time it takes for the Moon to orbit once around Earth. Thanks to this synchronous rotation, the same side of the Moon always faces our planet.

If the Moon did not rotate on its axis at all, or if it rotated at any other rate, then we would see different parts of the Moon throughout the month.

Does the Moon orbit Earth?

Yes. The Moon takes about one month to orbit Earth (27.3 days to complete a revolution, but 29.5 days to change from new moon to new moon). As the Moon completes each 27.3-day orbit around Earth, both Earth and the Moon are moving around the Sun. Because of this change in position, sunlight appears to hit the Moon at a slightly different angle on day 27 than it does on day zero ― even though the Moon itself has already traveled all the way around Earth. It takes a little more than two additional days for sunlight to hit the Moon in the same way it did on day zero. This is why it takes 29.5 days to get from new moon to new moon, even though it doesn’t take quite that long for the Moon itself to travel once around Earth.

Are Moon phases the same everywhere on Earth?

Yes, everyone sees the same phases of the Moon. People north and south of the equator do see the Moon’s current phase from different angles, though. If you traveled to the other hemisphere, the Moon would be in the same phase as it is at home, but it would appear upside down compared to what you're used to! For example, on March 8, 2021, the Moon was in a waning crescent phase. Seen from the Northern Hemisphere, the waning crescent appeared on the left side of the Moon. Seen from the Southern Hemisphere, the crescent appeared on the right.

Are Moon phases caused by shadows from Earth?

No. The only time Earth’s shadow affects our view of the Moon is during a lunar eclipse . Generally, one half of the Moon ― the side facing the Sun ― is brightly illuminated, and one is in shadow. We use moon phases to describe the way our perspective on the half-lit Moon changes as Earth and Moon move through space over the course of a month. During a crescent moon, for example, the part of the Moon that faces Earth is mostly in shadow, and the far side of the Moon is mostly sunlit . The visible crescent is the only part of the lunar nearside that is experiencing daytime.

Why do we see Moon phases?

The Moon is always half-lit by the sun (except during a lunar eclipse ). The side of the Moon facing the Sun appears bright because of reflected sunlight, and the side of the Moon facing away from the Sun is dark. Our perspective on the half-lit Moon changes as the Moon orbits Earth . When the side nearest to us is fully lit, we call this a full Moon. When the far side is fully lit and the near side is dark, we call this a new Moon. When we see other phases , we are looking at the division between lunar night (the dark part) and day (the bright part).

Is there a "dark side of the Moon"?

There is no permanent dark side of the Moon. The far side of the Moon gets as much sunlight as the near side. Like Earth, the Moon has a day side and a night side, which change as the Moon rotates.

The Sun always illuminates half of the Moon while the other half remains dark, but how much we are able to see of that illuminated half changes as the Moon travels through its orbit. When it's daytime on the near side of the Moon, that's the full moon phase. When it's nighttime on the near side of the Moon, that's the new moon phase .

What is the Moon really shaped like?

The Moon is shaped like an imperfect sphere. From a distance, it looks nearly round. Seen up close, the Moon’s surface is a three-dimensional landscape of mountains, valleys, and craters. Explore the Moon’s surface from wherever you are in this 3D map built from data captured by NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO). From Earth, our view of the Moon's sunlit surface changes throughout the month. Learn about crescent moons, full moons, and other moon phases here .

Can I see the Moon during the day?

Yes! The Moon is up just as much during the day as it is at night, but you might not notice it as easily. Because the Sun is also up, and because the Moon phases that are most often visible in daylight show us only a little bit of the Moon’s bright side (like the crescent Moon phases), the Moon is harder to see during the day.

Why does the Moon rise and set? Can people in different countries see the Moon on the same day?

Moonrises and moonsets occur for the same reason as sunrises and sunsets: Earth rotates once a day. This means that observers in many different parts of the world have their turn looking at the Moon throughout each day, just like we all see the same Sun over the course of 24 hours.

Moonrise and moonset times change each day as the Moon moves through its monthly orbit around Earth. Learn more about the Moon's motion through space here .

Why does the Moon look largest close to the horizon?

This is an optical illusion. Prove it for yourself here !

Origin and Nature of the Moon

Does the moon make its own light (like the sun does).

The Moon does not make its own light. “Moonlight” is really sunlight that has reflected off of the Moon’s surface.

What is moonlight? How is the Moon lit?

The Moon does not make its own light. All moonlight is reflected sunlight. The bright part of the Moon is experiencing daytime.

What is the Moon? Is it a planet?

The Moon is a natural satellite , or a space object that orbits around something else. Our Moon is Earth’s natural satellite. In general, a moon is a natural satellite of a planet, and a planet is a special kind of natural satellite that orbits a star and also meets other conditions. Learn more: What makes a planet a planet ?

How did the Moon form?

The leading theory is that a Mars-sized object collided with Earth billions of years ago, and debris from this collision eventually formed the Moon. Here is an animation that shows what this might have looked like:

Does the Moon have gravity? Do things float “up” when dropped on the Moon?

The Moon does have gravity. Because the Moon has less mass than Earth, its gravitational pull is weaker (about one-sixth of Earth’s). On the Moon, you’d be able to jump about six times as high as you can on Earth ― but you would still come back down!

What would happen if there was no Moon? How does the Moon affect Earth?

Earth would be a very different world if it had no Moon. The Moon's gravity keeps our planet from wobbling on its axis too much, which helps to stabilize our climate. The Moon also plays an important role in creating Earth's ocean tides .

Discover More Topics From NASA

Lunar Discovery and Exploration

Skywatching

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Can You Master the Lunar Cycle in Our Moon Phases Quiz? 🌓

Can you conquer our moon phases challenge?

Moon Phases Quiz

Have you ever gazed up at the Moon and noticed its changing appearance night after night? The Moon, our faithful companion in the vast expanse of space, undergoes a mesmerizing transformation as it orbits around our planet. These changes in its appearance, known as Moon phases, occur in a predictable pattern, offering a fascinating glimpse into the intricate interplay of celestial bodies.

In this moon phases quiz, we embark on an exploration of the captivating phenomenon known as Moon phases. Whether you're an avid astronomer or simply intrigued by the wonders of the cosmos, prepare to delve into the mysteries of lunar illumination and discover the beauty hidden within the lunar cycle.

The Lunar Cycle

Lasting approximately 29.5 days, the lunar cycle encompasses the complete sequence of Moon phases, from New Moon to Full Moon and back again. The phases of the moon refer to the different appearances of the Moon as it orbits the Earth. These phases are primarily a result of the changing angles between the Earth , the Moon, and the Sun .

Here's an overview of the eight primary moon phases:

• New Moon : This occurs when the Moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun, with the side of the Moon that is illuminated facing away from Earth. As a result, the Moon appears dark or completely invisible from Earth.
• Waxing Crescent : Following the New Moon, a small sliver of the Moon becomes visible as it begins to wax, or increase in illumination. This phase marks the beginning of the Moon's journey towards full illumination.
• First Quarter : At this point, the Moon has completed about one-quarter of its orbit around the Earth. From our perspective on Earth, half of the Moon's face is illuminated while the other half remains in shadow.
• Waxing Gibbous : As the Moon continues its orbit, more of its surface becomes illuminated. During this phase, the illuminated portion of the Moon is greater than at the First Quarter but less than at the Full Moon.
• Full Moon : The Moon is now directly opposite the Sun, with the Earth in between. As a result, the entire face of the Moon that is visible from Earth appears illuminated by the Sun's light, presenting a full, round appearance.
• Waning Gibbous : Following the Full Moon, the illuminated portion of the Moon begins to decrease. During this phase, the Moon appears to be more than half but less than fully illuminated.
• Last Quarter : At this point, the Moon has completed about three-quarters of its orbit around the Earth. Half of the Moon's face is again illuminated, but now the opposite side compared to the First Quarter phase.
• Waning Crescent : As the Moon approaches the New Moon phase once again, only a small sliver of its surface remains illuminated. This phase marks the final stages of the Moon's cycle before it returns to the New Moon phase.

These eight phases represent the complete cycle of changes in the Moon's appearance as it orbits the Earth, typically occurring over a period of about 29.5 days.

Moon Phases Trivia Questions and Answers

Are you ready to put your knowledge of Moon phases to the test? Our moon phases quiz will challenge your understanding of lunar phenomena with a series of thought-provoking questions. From identifying the phases of the Moon to unraveling the mysteries of lunar eclipses, each question offers a chance to deepen your cosmic knowledge and hone your celestial skills.

As we conclude our cosmic voyage through the realm of Moon phases, take a moment to reflect on the beauty and wonder of our celestial companion. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or an aspiring star seeker, may this quiz inspire you to gaze up at the night sky with newfound appreciation and curiosity. Remember, the mysteries of the cosmos are vast and infinite, waiting to be explored by those who dare to look up and dream.

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Can You Answer These Basic Astronomy Questions?

Moon phases quiz questions.

How many main phases does the Moon go through in its monthly cycle?

What causes the Moon to have phases?

Earth's shadow

Rotation on its axis

Atmospheric changes

Sunlight hitting different parts of the Moon

During which phase of the Moon is the illuminated portion increasing?

During which phase of the Moon is the illuminated portion decreasing?

During a ___, the Moon appears completely dark from Earth.

Which phase of the Moon occurs when the Sun, Earth, and Moon form a right angle?

True or false: The Moon goes through a complete cycle of phases roughly every 29.5 days.

What is the phase of the Moon when it is positioned between the Earth and the Sun?

Third Quarter

First Quarter

Which Moon phase has this description: Only a small sliver of the Moon is visible, and it's increasing?

Waning Crescent

Waning Gibbous

Waxing Crescent

A ___ Moon occurs when half of the Moon's surface is illuminated, and it's increasing.

Waxing Gibbous

Which phase of the Moon occurs between the first quarter and full Moon phases?

True or false: A lunar eclipse can only occur during a full Moon.

What phase of the Moon occurs when the Moon is positioned on the opposite side of the Earth from the Sun?

During a ___ Moon, half of the Moon is illuminated, and it's decreasing.

Last Quarter

Which phase of the Moon occurs between the last quarter and new Moon phases?

The end is approaching! Put the following Moon phases in the correct order.

Full Moon, New Moon, Third Quarter, First Quarter

New Moon, First Quarter, Full Moon, Third Quarter

First Quarter, New Moon, Third Quarter, Full Moon

Third Quarter, First Quarter, New Moon, Full Moon

You're almost at the end! What is the name given to the line dividing the illuminated and dark halves of the Moon?

Here's the final question: a solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is in which phase?

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• My Storyboards

The Moon Worksheets

Customize moon worksheets.

If you're assigning this to your students, copy the worksheet to your account and save. When creating an assignment, just select it as a template!

Using Worksheets to Teach About the Moon

The moon, Earth's constant companion in the sky, has captivated humans for centuries. From its mesmerizing phases to the mysteries of its lunar landscape, it continues to inspire curiosity and wonder. Exploring its various phases, history of exploration, and its role in our solar system is useful whether you're a student, educator, or simply someone intrigued by the cosmos.

Teaching the Moon's Vital Stats, its Phases and its Impact

The moon is Earth's natural satellite, a spherical body with a diameter of about 2,159 miles (3,474 kilometers). It orbits Earth at an average distance of 238,855 miles (384,400 kilometers) and is an integral part of our solar system. To teach kids about these phases, educators often use tools like a phases worksheet or an "Oreo moon phases worksheet.” These interactive activities allow children to model, draw, and explain phases by using Oreo cookies to mimic the moon's different appearances as it orbits Earth. This engaging approach helps students grasp the concept of the moon's phases, from the new moon to the first quarter moon and beyond.

Lunar Landscapes: Craters, Maria, and More

When we gaze at the sky, we see more than just different phases; we also observe a rich tapestry of lunar landscapes. The moon's surface is adorned with craters, vast plains called "maria," rugged highlands, and towering mountains. These features were formed through eons of meteoroid impacts and volcanic activity, providing valuable insights into our solar system's history.

The Dark Side of the Moon

One of the moon's most intriguing aspects is its synchronous rotation, which means we only see one side of it from Earth. However, there is no "dark side" in the sense of perpetual darkness. The term simply refers to the side that faces away from Earth. It orbits our planet, and as it does, it reveals different phases to observers in the northern hemisphere.

Moon-Watching Tips for Amateurs

For those eager to explore the sky and observe the moon's phases, there are numerous resources available. Whether you're using a telescope, binoculars, or just your naked eye, the moon is a readily accessible celestial object for stargazers of all ages. Free printable moon phases worksheets and "identifying phases of the moon worksheets" can assist students and amateurs alike in their lunar-gazing adventures.

Worksheet Ideas

Primary level: 1st - 3rd grade.

• Oreo Moon’s Phases Worksheet: Have students use Oreo cookies to represent the phases of the moon, such as a waxing crescent moon or a waning gibbous moon. They can draw and label each phase on their moon phases worksheet, helping them understand the lunar cycle in a tasty and interactive way.
• Drawing Moon Phases Worksheet: Provide students with a blank moon phases worksheet and encourage them to draw the moon as it appears in various phases. This activity helps them develop observational skills and learn about the moon's changing appearance.
• Phases Circle Activity: Create a large circle on the floor and have students stand around it. Use flashlights to represent the sun, and as you shine the light on the circle, ask students to move to show the position of the moon during different phases. This hands-on activity reinforces the concept of the moon's orbit around Earth.

Intermediate Level: 4th - 6th Grade

• Lunar Cycle Observation Journal (Moon Phases Worksheet Free): Give students a printable phases of the moon worksheet and ask them to observe and record the moon's rotation over several weeks. They can use their worksheets to sketch the moon's appearance and note the date and time of each observation. This activity helps them understand the recurring lunar cycle.
• Phases of the Moon Worksheet Cut and Paste Flipbook: Give students a worksheet that includes images of phases of the moon. Ask them to cut out each phase and create a flipbook that shows the transition from one phase to the next. This activity makes learning about phases hands-on and engaging.

Middle School Level: 7th - 9th Grade

• Predicting Moon Phases Worksheet: Provide students with a worksheet that includes dates and times. Ask them to predict the moon's phase for each date and then check their predictions against actual observations. This activity reinforces their understanding of the moon's orbital patterns.
• Night Sky Observation: Organize an outdoor sky observation session. Have students use a worksheet to record their observations of the moon's phase, along with other celestial objects like planets and stars. This activity connects lunar phases to the broader context of the sky.

High School Level: 10th - 12th Grade

• Lunar Cycle Simulation: Use a digital simulation or model to demonstrate how the moon's orbit around Earth results in different phases. Have students analyze the simulation and complete a moon worksheet that includes questions about the lunar cycle.
• Comparing Earth's Phases: Have students compare and contrast the rotation of the moon with the day-night cycle on Earth. Use a worksheet to guide their analysis and discussions about the relationship between Earth's orbit around the sun and the moon's phases.
• Moon Phases and Tides: Explore the connection between phases of the moon and tides. Provide students with data on tides for a specific location and ask them to use their knowledge of lunar orbit and rotation, from a waxing crescent moon to a waning crescent moon, to explain the variations in tidal patterns.

Steps to Make a Moon Phases Worksheet

• Define Your Objectives: Determine the educational goals of your worksheet. Decide whether it will focus on basic phases of the moon, incorporate hands-on activities or include more advanced concepts.
• Content and Layout: Outline the content and layout of the worksheet. Include sections for drawing or labeling phases of the moon, explanations, or predictions.
• Clear Instructions: Provide clear and concise instructions for each section. Specify whether students should use visual aids like Oreos, draw a phase of the moon like a half moon or a full moon, or answer questions about the lunar cycle. Including a moon phases worksheet answer key is useful since it serves as a valuable resource for students to independently check their work and reinforce their understanding of lunar phases, promoting self-assessment and learning autonomy. Moon activity worksheet instructions should be clear and concise, guiding students through the process of observing, recording, and analyzing lunar phases to enhance their comprehension of this astronomical phenomenon.
• Engaging Activities: If relevant, include engaging activities, such as predicting lunar phases or conducting experiments. Encourage hands-on learning and critical thinking.
• Visual Elements: Add visual elements like images of lunar phases, diagrams of the Earth-moon-sun system, or illustrations of celestial events to enhance comprehension and make the worksheet visually appealing.
• Accessibility: Consider making your lunar phases worksheet accessible by providing a downloadable, printable version for educators and students. If possible, offer it as a free moon phases worksheet resource online for wider distribution.

By following these steps, you can create an informative and engaging lunar phases worksheet that aligns with your educational objectives and incorporates key elements such as hands-on activities and answer keys.

More Storyboard That Resources and Free Printables

• The Earth and Moon
• The Moon: Fun Facts
• What are Moons?
• Natural Resources Worksheets

How to Make a Moon Worksheet

Choose one of the premade templates.

We have lots of templates to choose from. Take a look at our example for inspiration!

Click on "Copy Template"

Once you do this, you will be directed to the storyboard creator.

Give Your Worksheet a Name!

Be sure to call it something related to the topic so that you can easily find it in the future.

Edit Your Worksheet

This is where you will include directions, specific images, and make any aesthetic changes that you would like. The options are endless!

Click "Save and Exit"

When you are finished, click this button in the lower right hand corner to exit your storyboard.

From here you can print, download as a PDF, attach it to an assignment and use it digitally, and more!

Happy Creating!

Frequently Asked Questions about Moon Worksheets

In what ways do moon phases worksheets encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students.

Moon phases worksheets encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students by requiring them to observe, analyze, and compare the moon's changing appearance. They promote pattern recognition, deductive reasoning for predicting future phases, and the application of scientific concepts, fostering analytical thinking and problem-solving. Students also engage in self-assessment, identifying errors and improving their understanding. Additionally, connecting moon phases to real-world scenarios and interdisciplinary topics enhances the relevance and complexity of problem-solving tasks, making these worksheets valuable tools for developing critical thinking skills.

Are there any creative activities or projects that complement moon phases worksheets and further deepen students' understanding of lunar concepts?

Certainly! Creative activities and projects that complement moon phases worksheets include crafting 3D moon phase models, designing lunar calendars, conducting lunar observations, creating moon phase art and poetry, exploring moon phase mythology, and crafting moon phase mobiles. Additionally, students can investigate the connection between moon phases and tides, engage in digital projects, plan hypothetical lunar missions, write moon phase-inspired stories, and use interactive moon phase apps. These hands-on and imaginative activities deepen students' understanding of lunar concepts while fostering creativity and engagement.

How can educators use worksheets as part of a larger unit on the moon and the solar system to provide a comprehensive learning experience?

Educators can enhance a comprehensive unit on the moon and the solar system by using worksheets strategically. Begin with assessments and sequential learning, progressing from foundational to more complex topics. Incorporate hands-on activities, cross-disciplinary connections, and critical thinking challenges using worksheets. Integrate interactive technology and group projects to engage students collaboratively. Use worksheets for progress assessments, reflection, and discussion. Finally, conclude with culminating projects to synthesize knowledge. This structured approach reinforces key concepts and caters to various learning styles throughout the unit.

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Earth Science: Phases of the Moon

Back to Science for Kids

Moon Phases Trivia Quiz

Free geography quiz with answers.

If you would like to tell us that you find a mistake, feel free to let us know :)

Test your knowledge of the moon and its phases with this fun and informative trivia quiz. The quiz features 15 questions about the moon, including its composition, phases, and phenomena like lunar eclipses and supermoons. Each question has four multiple-choice answers, with the correct answer provided after each question. This quiz is perfect for students who want to learn more about our closest celestial neighbor and the beautiful phases it goes through every month.

What is the name of the phase of the moon when it appears as a complete circle?

What is the name of the phase of the moon when it appears as a thin crescent in the sky?

What is the name of the phase of the moon when it is between the full moon and the last quarter?

What is the name of the phase of the moon when it is between the new moon and the first quarter?

How long does it take for the moon to complete one cycle of its phases?

What is the name of the dark, flat areas on the moon's surface that were formed by ancient volcanic eruptions?

What is the name of the large impact crater on the moon that can be seen from Earth with the naked eye?

What is the name of the phenomenon when the moon appears reddish in color during a total lunar eclipse?

What is the name of the phase of the moon when it is between the last quarter and the new moon?

What is the name of the phase of the moon when only a small sliver of the moon is visible in the sky?

What is the name of the imaginary line that separates the illuminated and dark portions of the moon?

What is the name of the phase of the moon when it is between the first quarter and the full moon?

What is the name of the phenomenon when the moon appears larger and brighter in the sky than usual?

What is the name of the process by which the moon's gravity causes the oceans on Earth to rise and fall?

What is the name of the phase of the moon when it is between the waning gibbous and the third quarter?

6 Proven Moon Phase Activities to Engage your Students

By the time students get to sixth grade, they have been introduced to the concept of lunar phases. But most students often lack a real understanding of WHY and HOW the moon goes through these phases. Hands-on activities are a fantastic way to improve your lessons, engage your students, and help them better understand the science behind the phenomenon. If you’re struggling to find projects to complement your lessons, read on because you and your students are going to love choosing a phases of the moon activity from this list for upper elementary and middle school!

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Classroom Activities for Teaching About Lunar Phases

Observation is a powerful skill to develop in students. And observing moon phases helps to strengthen their understanding of cause and effect. Here are a few of my favorite moon phase activities to help your students dive deeper and understand why we see the different phases of the moon. 

1. MOON MODELS

Moon models are a great way for students to explore and make connections with the moon and its phases! This is often one of the first activities I do when teaching about this topic.

Bonus! It’s also a great way to pre-assess and see how much they really know!

Materials You’ll Need:

A moon model is quick and easy to make using only:

•  a 2-inch Styrofoam ball ,  
• and a skewer or durable plastic stick .  

How It Works

Once students have their moon models, place a lamp in the center of the room.  I like to take the lampshade off of mine to be sure the light they are getting is direct. 

Turn out the lights and spread out the students around the lamp – be careful no one is blocking their light and creating an eclipse!

Tell the students they will be using their head as the ”observer on Earth” and lamp as the sun.  

Add Some Challenges!

Here are a few ideas:

• Can you simulate the phases of the moon?
• Where would the moon be in order for the observer to see a full moon?
• Where would the moon be in order for the observer to see a new moon? 
• How would you position yourself so that the observer sees a first quarter moon?
• How would you position yourself so that the observer sees a 3rd quarter moon?
• Does the moon make its own light?  Explain. 

2. LUNAR PHASE STORYBOARD ACTIVITY

Sometimes I feel like so many of our students are getting burned out with the constant use of technology.  Especially this year!

In this project, students read short descriptions about the phases of the moon. Then, they create and label a scientific diagram to summarize what they read.

This storyboard activity is a great way to reinforce and assess the phases of the moon with a creative twist! 

3. VOLLEYBALL MOON PHASE ACTIVITY

The volleyball moon activity is a quick and easy way to demonstrate how the moon’s position, relative to the Earth, affects the phase we see.

This is especially good to do after students have learned to identify the phases of the moon.

Materials You’ll Need: 

• volleyball (from the PE department….),  
• strong light source, such as a spotlight or old fashioned overhead projector

How It Works:

The set up for this is simple.  Place the volleyball on one end of the room. Shine the bright light on the ball.

Turn off the lights and go around the room asking students to identify the phase of the moon they see from where they’re sitting.  

Because the students are seated in different areas of the room, they are viewing different amounts of the volleyball being lit up. For example, one student may see a full moon, while another sees a first quarter or a waxing crescent. Don’t forget to have a student observe the ball from a new moon position!

This quick simulation sets up for a great discussion of “who’s right?” (or wrong) since we all came up with different answers!  Hint : This makes a great writing activity!

After the volleyball demonstration, students are able to easily make the connection that the moon’s position affects the phase of the moon we see from Earth. 

4. NORTH POLAR VIEW PHASES OF THE MOON WORKSHEET

While not flashy, the north-polar view model is one of the best lunar-phase activities to REALLY help students understand the relationship between what we see from Earth and how the moon is positioned in the sky.

I am a huge fan of students adding a concrete, written explanation to hands-on activities.  The north-polar view diagram is one of the best ways I’ve found to really drive home the understanding of the phases of the moon!

5. INTERACTIVE MOON MODEL

The moon model is a huge “aha moment” for both teachers and students alike!

Honestly, I’ve had teachers share that this is the first time they “truly understood” why we see the phases of the moon. 

• Black, sturdy poster board  
• Black spray paint OR black Sharpie marker  
• 8 Ping pong balls  
• Hot glue gun  

The moon model is so simple and inexpensive to make:

• Cut a hole in the middle of a black, sturdy poster board. The hole should be big enough for a student to poke their head through.
• Spray paint or use a black Sharpie marker to color 8 ping pong balls so that they are half black and half white.
• Glue them to the board around the circle (hot glue works well!). The white side of the ping pong balls should be facing the “sun.”
• Label the direction the sun is coming from on the board. 

How It Works 

Students take turns putting their head through the hole and rotating the board counter clockwise to see the phases of the moon.  

Extend the Learning with These Ideas

• Students can make a flip grid video to explain how to use the moon model and how it works.
• Number the different phases with sticky notes (out of order) and have students work with partners to identify the different phases they see.

6. MOON PHASE TASK CARDS

Task cards are one of my favorite tools to reinforce learning about a specific topic. These phases of the moon task cards are a great way to add some extra practice  or review in the classroom.

Take a look at this blog post filled with ideas to make task cards fun in the middle school classroom. 

FREE COLOR BY NUMBER

Grab the free moon phase color by number, your inbox is going to love us.

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Take your Moon Phase Investigation to the Next Level!

Save time with this moon phase bundle ! Everything you need to teach moon phases is included in this bundle plus save 20%!

• Presentation & Foldable
• Practice Worksheets
• North Polar View
• Task Cards (digital and print)
• Storyboard Activity

Here’s what teachers like you are saying:

My students were engaged during our lessons with this resource. They were able to gain new information without me having to interpret what was said…. always a bonus! Lynn O. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

My students were very engaged and we had lots of discussion. The slides were exactly what I was looking for to aid in teaching/class discussion. I loved the differentiated notes option as my students are on all different levels of ability. Beverly C. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Need some virtual activities? Check out this post “5 Virtual Moon Phase Activities” Your Students Will Love.”

Moon phases posters.

Posters are a great way to visually reinforce the moon phases activities I’ve listed above. Here are a few excellent ones for you to consider adding to your classroom walls.

Set of 9 Laminated Moon Phases Charts  

Moon Phases – Classroom Science Poster

Pyramid America Laminated Phases of The Moon Space Lunar NASA Poster Dry Erase Sign 12×18

20 Inch by 30 Inch Laminated Poster With Bright Colors And Vivid Imagery

Other Posts You May Enjoy

• 5 Virtual Moon Phase Activities Your Students Will Love
• 5 Engaging Formation of the Solar System Activities
• 8 Earth’s Atmosphere Activities for Middle School  

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Moon Phases Quizzes, Questions & Answers

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Phases of the Moon

Physics, science.

15 questions

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When the Moon is directly between the Sun and the Earth, what phase would the Moon be in?

Waxing Crescent

What term is associated with the moons that are increasing in size (more light on them) each day?

Waxing moons

Waning moons

Crescent moons

Gibbous moons

Why is the moon bright?

It reflects the Earth's light

It reflects the other stars' light

It reflects the Sun's light

It makes its own light

About how long does it take the Moon to complete its orbit?

around 1 week

around 1 month

around 1 year

around 1 day

Name the moon phase

First Quarter

Third Quarter

• 10. Multiple Choice Edit 30 seconds 1 pt What is the difference between a gibbous moon and a crescent moon? The gibbous shows more than half of the bright side of the moon. The crescent shows more than half of the bright side of the moon. The gibbous shows less than half of the bright side of the moon. 
• 11. Multiple Choice Edit 1 minute 1 pt As the moon's shape appears to get smaller, we say that the moon is _. swelling waxing waning disappearing
• 12. Multiple Choice Edit 20 seconds 1 pt Changes in the moon's appearance are phases eclipses stages cycle
• 14. Multiple Choice Edit 30 seconds 1 pt The 1st Quarter moon is lit on the: Left Side Right Side

Name this moon phase

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• Physics Concept Questions And Answers

Moon Questions

Did you know that the moon is the natural satellite of the Earth? A moon is a planetary-mass object that forms a differentiated rocky body, making it a satellite planet under the geophysical definitions of the term. In the year 1969, Neil Armstrong was the first to land on the moon.

The phase of the moon in which its whole disc is illuminated is known as the full moon day. This happens only when the moon is opposite the sun. A new moon occurs when the moon is on the same side of Earth as the sun. A new moon can be seen during a solar eclipse.

Various phases of the moon are:

• Waning crescent moon
• First-quarter moon
• Waning gibbous moon
• Last quarter moon
• Waxing crescent moon
• Waxing gibbous moon

The moon does not have its own light. It can only reflect light from the sun. Only the side of the moon that faces the sun can reflect this light and appear bright. The moon’s dark side refers to the moon’s far side, and it is not dark.

The moon’s distance from the Earth is about 240,000 miles. The water present on the moon is known as lunar water.

Read more: Dark side of the moon .

Important Moon Questions with Answers

1. Identify the planet

Answer: c) Saturn

Explanation: Saturn is the planet among the following.

2. This is the second phase which occurs after a few days of the new moon, and is known as _____

• First-quarter
• Third-quarter moon
• Waxing crescent

Answer: d) Waxing crescent.

Explanation: Waxing crescent is the second phase which occurs after a few days of the new moon.

3. State true or false: Seismic activity is seen on the moon.

Answer: a) TRUE

Explanation: Small intensity moonquakes are seen on the moon.

4. The Moon’s mean density is _____

• 1.34 grams per cubic cm
• 2.34 grams per cubic cm
• 3.34 grams per cubic cm
• 4.34 grams per cubic cm

Answer: c) 3.34 grams per cubic cm.

5. Fill in the blanks: _____ occurs when the moon is on the same side of Earth as the sun.

Answer: New moon

Explanation: New moon occurs when the moon is between the sun and earth.

6. Who was the first person to land on the moon?

• Georgy Dobrovolsky
• Galileo Galilei
• Neil Armstrong
• Eli Cologne

Answer: c) Neil Armstrong

Explanation: Neil Armstrong was the first person to land on the moon in the year 1969.

7. What are the four main phases of the moon?

The four main phases of the moon are:

8. The moon takes how many days to revolve around the earth?

Answer: d) 27 days

Explanation: The moon takes exactly 27 days, 7 hours, and 43 minutes to go full circle around the Earth.

9. Match the following:

• Second phase of moon   i) Third-quarter moon
• Fifth phase of moon   ii) Waning gibbous moon
• Sixth phase of moon   iii) Waxing crescent
• Seventh phase of moon   iv) Full moon
• a-iv, b-iii, c-ii, d-i
• a-i, b-ii, c-iii, d-iv
• a-iii, b-iv, c-ii, d-i
• a-iv, b-i, c-ii, d-iii

Answer: a-iii, b-iv, c-ii, d-i

10. The natural satellite of the Earth is _____

Answer: d) Moon

Explanation: The moon is the natural satellite of the Earth.

Practice Questions

• Define the moon.
• List the phases of the moon.
• List the features of the moon.
• Is the atmosphere present on the moon?
• What is Lunar water?

<b>See the video below to learn about the phases of the moon in a detailed way.</b>

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Ukraine-Russia war latest: Kremlin responds to claims Russia is targeting Olympics

After reports that Moscow is targeting the Paris Olympics with a disinformation campaign, the Kremlin has responded. Meanwhile, NATO only has two to three years to prepare before Russia regains its ability to launch a conventional attack on the alliance, Norway's top general has said.

Tuesday 4 June 2024 18:07, UK

• Big picture: Everything you need to know about the war right now
• Kremlin denies disinformation campaign targeting Olympics  
• Russia could be ready to attack NATO in three years, Norway warns
• Baby among seven civilians injured in overnight missile strike
• Navalny's mother and supporters visit grave on his birthday  
• Live reporting by Bhvishya Patel

We're pausing our coverage for today but we will be back tomorrow with more updates.

Here is a rundown of the key developments today:

• Norway's top general said NATO only has two to three years to prepare before Russia regains its ability to launch a conventional attack on the alliance;
• German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said Ukraine's use of Western-supplied weapons to strike targets in Russia will not "contribute to escalation";
• Microsoft made allegations in the New York Times that Russia was targeting the upcoming Olympics with a disinformation campaign;
• The mother of Alexei Navalny and his supporters visited his grave to lay flowers and pay tribute to the late Kremlin critic on what would have been his 48th birthday.

You can scroll back through the blog to read all our updates from today.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has said any foreign military staff training Ukrainian troops will not have any "immunity" from Russian strikes.

"Any instructors who train the Kyiv regime's troops don't have any sort of immunity," he said in a conference call with reporters today.

Reports have suggested talks are ongoing over whether French instructors could soon be sent to support training centres in Ukraine.

Ukrainian troops have been preparing to fire towards Russian positions on the frontline in the eastern Donetsk region.

Donetsk is one of the four provinces Vladimir Putin proclaimed as part of Russia in an illegal referendum at the start of the war and fighting here is particularly intense.

Russia's two biggest banks plan to open branches and offices in the regions of Ukraine that Moscow claimed to have annexed next month.

Sberbank chief executive German Gref said in Russia's upper house of parliament the bank would be "present throughout the whole country's territory".

VTB chief executive Andrei Kostin said they would open two offices in Luhansk in July and had plans to start serving clients in Donetsk and the port city of Mariupol by the end of the year.

For context : Vladimir Putin illegally annexed Ukraine's Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions in September 2022, after what Ukraine and its Western allies branded sham referendums. 

The move was condemned by many countries as illegal. 

Russian forces only partly control the four regions.

Manufacturers and distributors need to improve compliance with Russia-related sanctions, the deputy secretary of the US Treasury has said.

American companies in particular need to pay more attention to their supply chains to ensure they are not complicit with Russia's evasion of sanctions over Ukraine, Wally Adeyemo said in an interview with CNBC.

He said manufacturers of microelectronics and machine tools especially needed to step up compliance to help cut off supplies of "dual use" goods to Russia, including from Chinese producers. 

Freight forwarders and distributors need to do the same and financial institutions need to look at their relationships with small and medium-sized banks in "countries of concern" because Moscow is looking for ways around US sanctions, Mr Adeyemo said.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy's chief of staff has said that using Western weapons to strike inside Russia was a vital decision that would impact Moscow's tactical aviation and its offensive ability in border regions. 

"This will impact the conduct of the war, planning of counteroffensive actions, and will weaken Russians' abilities to use their forces in the border areas," Andriy Yermak said on Telegram. 

Russia has said the move would mark an escalation to the conflict and has threatened war with NATO if Western weapons are used in its airspace.

By  Ivor Bennett , Moscow correspondent

Dozens of Alexei Navalny supporters have visited his grave to lay flowers and pay tribute to the late Kremlin critic on what would have been his 48th birthday. 

The opposition leader died at an Arctic prison colony in February, prompting outrage from Western governments.

Nearly four months on, his family say the cause of his death remains unexplained.

His widow Yulia Navalnaya has accused Vladimir Putin of ordering his murder, and last week his allies called for additional sanctions to punish the Russian president's inner circle.

The Kremlin has repeatedly denied any involvement in his death. According to his death certificate, he died of natural causes.

Navalny's mother, Lyudmila, as well as his mother-in-law Alla Abrosimova, were among those who gathered at his grave in the Borisovskoye cemetery in southeast Moscow today.

Video posted by SOTAvision on the social media platform Telegram shows a memorial service led by Dmitry Safronov, a priest who was previously banned from clerical duties by the Russian Orthodox Church for presiding over a similar service in March, which marked 40 days since the activist's death.

According to the independent Novaya Gazeta newspaper, three police officers were on duty near the cemetery but they did not make any arrests.

Having been convicted of multiple charges, ranging from fraud to extremism, Navalny was serving sentences totalling more than 30 years when he died.

His Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) is outlawed in Russia, and has been accused by the authorities of having links to the CIA.

What remains of his team now operates in exile.

Polish farmers have resumed their protest blockade at the Ukrainian border crossing due to agricultural imports from the country.

Farmers in Poland have staged sporadic demonstrations at the border since last autumn.

The demonstrators are blocking trucks from leaving Ukraine.

Cargo vehicles heading to Ukraine are allowed to enter by 12 trucks per 12 hours and by four trucks with humanitarian aid per hour, the Ukrainian Border Guard Service said.

Other vehicles are continuing as usual.

"Representatives of Polish farmers demand reduced imports of Ukrainian crops to Polish territory from Ukraine," the Border Guard Service said.

Disputes over crop imports have strained the relationship between Warsaw and Kyiv, with both countries being major agricultural producers.

Polish farmers have complained that Ukrainian products create uneven competition, particularly since the EU lifted tariffs in 2022.

Poland banned the import of several products from Ukraine, including grain, corn, and rapeseed, in 2023.

In our last post, we brought you news that Microsoft had made allegations in the New York Times that Russia was targeting the upcoming Olympics with a disinformation campaign.

Moscow has now branded those accusations "absolute slander", with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov saying there is no substance to them.

Russia is widely accused of having waged disinformation campaigns over the years, often targeting elections in the United States, Europe and Britain.

Moscow has always denied it uses disinformation to influence public opinion. 

The Paris Olympics are being targeted by a Russian-linked disinformation campaign, according to the New York Times.

Since last summer, efforts have been under way by a hacker group named Storm-1679, the paper reports.

The campaign "began in earnest" when a documentary was released with a doctored International Olympic Committee (IOC) logo, along with an AI-powered impersonation of Tom Cruise's voice.

The hackers "are trying to cultivate an anticipation of violence", said Clint Watts, the head of Microsoft's Digital Threat Analysis Centre.

"They want people to be fearful of going to the Olympics."

Storm-1679 makes around three to eight disinformation videos a week, Mr Watts told the newspaper, many of which appear as if they come from media outlets such as the BBC or Al Jazeera.

Both Russia and Belarus have been banned from competing in the Olympics over the war in Ukraine, but some athletes from those countries will be allowed to compete as "neutral athletes", the IOC announced in March.

The Paris games will take place between 26 July and 11 August.

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