Moon Madness

How It Works

Students create animations to demonstrate knowledge of how the phases of the earth’s moon occur.

Standards

Standards Earth Sciences-Objects in the sky move in regular and predictable patterns. As a basis for understanding this concept, students know how the moon’s appearance changes during the four-week lunar cycle.  

Estimated Class Periods to Complete

Six  

Software and Materials Used

TV presenter, computers with Internet connection, Star Office 5.2 or other software that includes an animation component, Styrofoam balls, pencils, paper, light source, books, videos or laserdiscs about the moon.  

Keywords

Moon, Moon Phases, Science, Change, Earth Science  

Students

The students involved in this project were third graders of varying ability levels. None of the students had previous experience with paint/draw or animation programs prior to entering the class. About one-fourth of the class had limited experience using the Internet. Students were grouped randomly.

Assessment

Assessment This project can be assessed on a ten point scale. Give students one point for each frame that is that has the correct image. Give students one point for each correct moon fact.

Overall Value

The best feature of this project was the motivation level of the students. Every student was eager to gather information and to learn to work cooperatively so they could create technology-enhanced models of the moon. The students were actively engaged in learning about the phases of the moon and excited to share their knowledge with others. This project also motivated students to learn more about other parts of the solar system.

Tips

Discuss the basic concept of animation before beginning the project. Bring in sample of flip books or have students create their own. Also, make sure students are familiar with the paint tools in the program you are using. Give them time to experiment before they are given the assignment.

About the Teacher

Tracee Sudyka currently teaches third grade at Joe Nightingale Elementary School in the Orcutt Union School District. Tracee has been a classroom teacher for fourteen years, and has taught grades three though six. Tracee has a strong interest in using technology as a tool for learning. Using technology, her students create variety of student-centered projects each school year.