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Moon Phases STEM Project

Moon Phases STEM Project

Learn more about how moon phases work with this orbit activity. Create a model to demonstrate how the moon orbits Earth and where it’s located for each moon phase using these templates and worksheets to guide the activity. 

Materials Needed for this Moon Phases STEM Project:

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Watch the video on how to make this Moon Phases STEM Project

 

Let’s slow it down with step-by-step directions on how to make this easy moon phases STEM Project for kids.

Step 1:

1. [Ask a grown-up to help] Using the thumbtack, carefully punch a hole in the middle of each paper plate.

Tip: If you don’t have two different-sized paper plates, trace and cut out a big and small circle on thin cardboard.

Step 2:

Stack the plates with the smallest on top, and poke the brad fastener through the holes to secure

Step 3:

Cut out these Moon Phase images and glue them clockwise around the small plate in order of when they happen.

Step 4:

Using the air-dry clay, create an Earth and Moon model. Use the markers to color the clay while it’s wet or dry (both will work!)

Tip: Don’t have clay? Use these printable templates instead. 

Step 5:

When the clay dries, tape or glue the Earth in the center of the small plate. Attach the Moon to the edge of the large plate. Draw an arrow next to the Moon pointing counterclockwise. 

Step 6:

Rotate the outer plate counterclockwise to demonstrate the Moon orbiting the Earth and the sequence of moon phases throughout the month. Use this model to help you make observations at night and see which of the Moon Phases is happening. Draw your observations on this worksheet. 

 

Want the templates seen here? You can grab them here in my TpT shop!

If you are looking for…

  • A Low-prep STEM lesson & easy-to-find materials
  • An engaging, hands-on activity that has guided directions
  • Opportunities for students to add their creativity
  • A quick, one-day STEM lesson for after-school clubs, homework extensions, homeschool projects (and more!)

Then this resource is PERFECT FOR YOU!

 

This product includes:

  • Easy project with simple materials
  • Digital & Printable
  • Written & video directions
  • Content-specific vocabulary
  • Science behind the project
  • Resources to explore the topic more
  • Experiment to test the design

 

Grab the full lesson HERE!

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More About The Author, Naomi Meredith

Naomi Meredith is a K-5 STEM educator and business owner in Colorado supporting elementary teachers world-wide navigate the best practices, strategies and tools out there. She has over a decade of experience teaching, 5 years teaching elementary STEM, along with a M.Ed. in STEM Leadership and STEM Certificate.

She offers a variety of resources to help teachers feel successful teaching STEM to their elementary students through lesson plans, online courses, coaching and speaking events.

She truly believes that any teacher out there can learn how to use STEM, innovation and hands-on learning in their classrooms effectively. She can’t wait to connect with you and be your guide!

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