Lunar Phases

In this assignment, you will model the moon's size, how the moon reflects light and the moon's phases.

Part 1: Scale of the Moon

Observe the softball-sized model Earth and different-sized moon models.

In your journal, write your prediction for which is the right-sized moon model (marble, ping-pong ball, racquet ball, baseball) compared to a softball-sized Earth model.

Observe this picture of the Earth versus Moon.

Then observe this picture of the Moon vs. USA.

In your journal, draw an Earth and moon where the moon has 1/4 the diameter of the Earth.

Part 2: Investigating the Moon's Reflected Light

You will build and use a model to see how the moon reflects light. This follows chapter 5 of the Earth in Space book.

Procedure:

1. Observe the teacher using the moon apparatus.

2. In your journal, answer this. Why do the rising and setting times and appearance of the moon change over time?

3. Follow steps 1-8 on pp. 64-65 of the Earth in Space book.

4. In your journal, answer reflection questions 1 A-B on

   1. p. 66 of the Earth in Space book.

Part 3: Modeling Lunar Phases

You will build and use a model the phases of the moon (note: the moon takes approximately 28 days to cycle through these phases, which is the same amount of time it takes the moon to orbit Earth).

Procedure:

1. Observe the teacher using the moon apparatus.

2. In your journal, answer this. When do objects reflect light? When are objects in their own shadows?

3. Follow steps 1-5 on p. 67 of the Earth in Space book.

4. In your journal, answer reflection questions 2 A-D on

   1. p. 67 of the Earth in Space book.

Part 4: Order of Moon's Phases

Use the set of 8 moon phase cutouts. Properly arrange these in a circle around the Earth with their arrows pointing out.

In your journal, please draw the correct arrangement of moon phases (also including the Earth and sun). Label these phases by correct name:

1. New moon

2. Waxing crescent

3. Waxing half

4. Waxing gibbous

5. Full moon

6. Waning gibbous

7. Waning half

8. Waning crescent

Part 5: Bill Nye Moon

Watch Bill Nye Moon (season 1, episode 11). While watching, complete the Bill Nye Moon assignment sheet.

Part 6: Moon Photos

Observe the full moon photo Ms. Franklin took in November, 2016.

Observe the waxing crescent photo from Ms. Franklin from May 28, 2016.

See this waxing crescent photo and notice that the rest of the moon is still somewhat visible. Why do you think that the rest of the moon is somewhat visible?

Answer hint 1: Earth-shine.

Answer hint 2: There is an almost "full Earth" at this time.