Observing the Moon
You can make and record observations of the Moon over time.
Observing the Moon
You can make and record observations of the Moon over time.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The Moon is made mostly of rock. The surface has dark spots and thousands of holes called craters.
- The Moon is far away from the Earth, and can be observed more closely using telescopes and binoculars.
- A scientist who observes the night sky is called an astronomer.
- The shape of the moon appears to change throughout each month.
- Observations of the moon can be recorded in different ways.
Keywords
Moon - Our Moon is an object that travels around planet Earth.
Crater - A crater is a circular-shaped hole caused by impact in space.
Telescope - A telescope helps us to see much further into space.
Astronomer - An astronomer is a scientist who observes objects in space.
Observe - To observe is to look very closely and use other senses too.
Common misconception
Pupils often think that the Moon changes shape.
Provide opportunities for pupils to observe the Moon over time, and record observations, including how it appears to change shape.
Equipment
Telescope or binoculars, Moon map are useful but not essential. See Worksheet for recording method
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
- Exploration of objects
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
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