S2.9.6 For the adult
Phases of the Moon
Why does the Moon change shape?
What this chapter teaches
The Moon is always a ball, and the Sun lights half of it. We see more or less of that half as the Moon goes round, which makes the phases; they are not the Earth's shadow.
Three questions to ask
There is no one right wording. Listen for the idea.
- Why does the Moon change shape through the month?
- How would you use a ball and a torch to make a crescent?
- What do you think the Moon looks like to a friend on the other side of the world?
After the chapter, the learner can
- Model the phases of the Moon with a ball and a lamp
- Draw the Moon each night for two weeks and name the phases
- Explain why the Moon looks upside down in the other hemisphere
What they copy into their notebook
The Moon is always a ball. The Sun lights half of it. As it goes round, we see more or less of that half. These are its phases. North and south see it upside down.