Phases of the Moon

Lauren Hawthorne
EDU 220-1005

I. Describe the Class

This lesson is for a 5th grade class with 28 students. There is 1 ELL, 1 student
with Autism, and 1 student with Dyslexia.

II. Subject/Skill:
Science: Phases of the moon/lunar cycle

III. Objective(s)
After reviewing the Phases of the Moon PowerPoint, students will
demonstrate their understanding of the lunar cycle through a group project and
individual practice.

IV. Procedures: For a Direct Instruction Lesson

1. The objective of this lesson is to demonstrate understanding of the lunar

cycle and the 8 phases of the moon. Review the terms: lunar cycle, new
moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning
gibbous, last quarter, and waning crescent. Present the lunar cycle
PowerPoint. Allow time for questions before moving on to the project.
2. Modeling: Present the lunar cycle PowerPoint. Write vocabulary words
and definitions on the board. Students should be taking notes.
3. Pass out the lunar cycle fill in note sheet. Use the overhead to display the
note sheet on the projector for students to see. As a class, complete the
lunar cycle diagram. Ask students What comes next in the cycle? Give
students time to think before choosing someone to volunteer the answer.
Allow time for student questions to ensure they understand the concept
before moving on to the project.
4. Tell students they will work in pairs with the student sitting next to them.
Hand out printed directions for the moon phases mobile. Give 1 to each
pair of students. Allow students to get the materials listed on the
instructions page, two groups at a time. Following the instructions,
students will complete their mobile project. They will have two class
periods to complete them. Monitor groups as students are working and
assist if needed.

V. Materials
Lunar Cycle Powerpoint presentation
Phases of the Moon diagram fill in note sheet
Lunar Cycle Review Sheet
Construction paper: blue, white, and black
 Scissors
Pencil
Yarn
Clear, disposable plastic cups or Styrofoam cups
Paper clips
Glue Stick

VI. Grouping Structures

Students will work in pairs with the person sitting next to them in the
classroom.

VII. Modifications
Students with disabilities and ELL students will work with a typical peer to
complete the project. Teacher will assist and monitor groups as needed.

VIII. Assessment
Assessing student progress/culminating or closing activity: At the end of
class, ask if students have any questions to check for understanding. When
projects are completed, students will give their Moon Phases Mobile to the
teacher for grading. Projects must be completed in two class periods. The
project will be graded out of 150 points. 10 points for each moon phase
cutout. 5 points for each correct label. 10 points for neatness. 20 points for
participation. Graded projects and worksheets will be returned to students for
questions and review as a class.
Distributed Practice and Review: At the end of class, students will be given
a review sheet to complete at home and turn in the next day for grading. It will
be graded out of 100 points. 5 points for each correct drawing. 5 points for
each correct label. 10 points for coloring. 10 points for summary of the lunar
cycle.