Phases of the Moon

Last updated almost 7 years ago

11 questions

Note from the author:

Moon Study

As you observe the Moon over a month, you notice it changes. Sometimes the right side is in sunlight; other times it’s the left. Sometimes you see it at night; sometimes you see it during daytime.
This Quest will help you understand why the Moon changes shape throughout the month. You will need to read the information available on the webpages you visit. Each Task is linked to a page that provides you specific information for that task. All answers can be found one or more of the websites. Your task is to read with your group, find the information, and work together to fill out the answers.  For question #11, please work alone and give your own answer. (All other parts are to be done as a group.)

Task 1: Open this weblink to find the information you need for this task.

There are eight major phases of the Moon. In the top of each square, write the name of the phase of the Moon. In the circle, draw a picture of what it looks like. 

Complete all 8 phases!

Task 2:  Open this weblink to find the information you need for this task. 

Define the term Gibbous.

Define the term Waxing.

Define the term Waning.

 Task 3: Open this weblink to find the information you need for this task.  

 Task 4: Open this weblink to find the information you need for this task.  

Complete the table below showing the phase of the Moon each day for the first 30 days this month.

Based on what you just drew, identify the days where the Moon’s phase is waxing crescent.

Based on what you just drew, identify the days where the Moon’s phase is gibbous.

Based on what you just drew, which day is the Moon full?

Based on what you just drew, which day is the New Moon?

Based on what you just drew, identify the days where the Moon’s phase is a waning crescent.

 Task 5: Open this weblink to find the information you need for this task.  

Phases of the Moon

Complete all 8 phases!

Define the term Gibbous.

Define the term Waxing.

Define the term Waning.

Complete the table below showing the phase of the Moon each day for the first 30 days this month.

Based on what you just drew, identify the days where the Moon’s phase is waxing crescent.

Based on what you just drew, identify the days where the Moon’s phase is gibbous.

Based on what you just drew, which day is the Moon full?

Based on what you just drew, which day is the New Moon?

Based on what you just drew, identify the days where the Moon’s phase is a waning crescent.

Level 4: Explain why the Moon, stars, and Sun appear to change positions in the sky.