Phases of the Moon

1…2…3 Blast Off! Let’s explore the moon!

The moon is a natural satellite in the solar system that stabilizes the earth’s climate. It also creates tides creating specific rhythmic patterns. There are 7 phases of the moon in a Lunar month: new moon, waxing crescent moon, first quarter moon, waxing gibbous moon, full moon, waning gibbous moon, and a third quarter moon. Most people think that the moon changes sizes, but it actually stays the same. It looks like it changes sizes based on how much sunlight is projected towards it. Using Oreos is a fun creative way to demonstrate the different phases.

Supplies Needed

  • 8 Oreos

  • paper plate (s)

  • markers

  • notepad and pen

Directions

  • First, draw the Earth in the center of a paper plate with markers.

  • Starting at the top, going clockwise, write the different phases of the moon at the edges of the paper plate.

  • Take the Oreos apart and let your kids create the different phases of the moon and place them under each corresponding spot.

  • ** A fun idea is to then go outside at night, each night for the month, and record the phases of the moon in a notepad. Do this activity with your kids and let them tell you which phase it is and let them draw it in the notepad.