Moon Phases Activity
Learning Objective: Pupils can name and sequence the phases of the Moon and explain why they occur
About this resource
This engaging KS2 science activity provides Year 5 pupils with a hands-on way to explore and understand the different phases of the Moon. Teachers can use this resource to help children identify and correctly sequence the lunar phases, as well as grasp the scientific reasons behind their appearance, directly supporting the Earth and Space topic within the UK National Curriculum.
Activity Overview
45 minutes + ongoingPupils learn about the Moon's phases using Oreo biscuits to model each phase, then create a Moon phase diary to observe the real Moon over two weeks.
The 8 Moon Phases
- New Moon (not visible)
- Waxing Crescent
- First Quarter (half moon)
- Waxing Gibbous
- Full Moon
- Waning Gibbous
- Last Quarter (half moon)
- Waning Crescent
The cycle takes approximately 29.5 days.
Oreo Moon Phases
- Give each pupil 8 Oreo biscuits
- Carefully twist open each biscuit
- Scrape the cream filling to match each Moon phase
- Arrange in order on a paper plate
- Label each phase
- Take a photo before eating!
Moon Diary
Over the next 2 weeks, observe the Moon each evening (weather permitting). Record: Date, time, what the Moon looks like (draw it), which phase you think it is. Bring your diary back to class to compare observations.
Differentiation
SEN Support
Phase cards with pictures to sequence. Pre-labelled plate template. Simplified diary with drawing only.
EAL Support
Visual phase chart with English labels. Paired activity. Key vocabulary: waxing, waning, crescent, gibbous.
Gifted & Talented
Research why we always see the same side of the Moon. Explain the difference between lunar and solar eclipses.
Key Vocabulary
Assessment Criteria
- Can name all 8 Moon phases
- Can sequence phases correctly
- Can explain why Moon phases occur