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Issue link: https://wardsworld.wardsci.com/i/1239960
Expected Results: Results may vary based on materials used, setup, procedure, and other factors, however, here is an example on what to expect: • As the Moon and Earth move, we see different amounts of the Moon's surface throughout the month illuminated by sun- light. As the Moon revolves around the Earth, the relative position of the Sun, Earth, and Moon makes the Moon appearance change. Using the cookies, the sunlit part of the Moon will be represented by the white icing, and the dark side of the Moon will be the chocolate part of the cookie. • Also, expect smiles and giggles as a result of handling the tasty materials. Teaching Notes: Questions and observations for students: Students should understand that the Earth, Moon, and Sun are components of our Solar System, that they change position over time, and that the Moon orbits the Earth while the Earth orbits the Sun. Students should also understand the Moon has no light of its own and that the Sun emits light which is reflected from the Moon surface to Earth. 1. Describe the process that causes the Moon to appear as these different phases. 2. What does it mean when the Moon is "waxing" or "waning"? 3. How long is one cycle of phases? 4. How many times a year do we see a full Moon? 5. How long does it take the Moon to cycle through all of its phases? 6. Why does the same side of the Moon always face Earth? 7. How does the position of the Sun, Moon, and Earth influence the appearance of the Moon? 8. What differences are there between the way the Moon appears from Earth, from the Sun, and from a third view point? 9. In what phase can we not see the Moon from Earth? Explain. 10. In reference to science, what does "Once in a blue moon," mean? Follow-up: • Conduct a live demonstration of these basic concepts in a dark room with a flashlight and a volleyball (Sun), a tennis ball (Earth), and a ping pong ball (Moon). • Have students play each role and be sure the remaining students walk around the demonstration to see the Moon from different views. Have the "Moon" move in stages so students can take a moment to see how it looks at each position from different views. • Have the students take notes as necessary. Tell them they will use their observations later. Disposal/Clean-up: – Discard any paper waste. Munch away on the leftover cookies. Looks Like a Moon But Tastes Like a Cookie, It's a Moon Phase Activity (continued) + ward ' s science Find materials for this activity at wardsci.com. Discover more free activities at wardsworld.wardsci.com