Moon Phases Worksheet
Learning Objective: Pupils can identify and explain the phases of the Moon
About this resource
This KS2 Moon Phases Worksheet is designed for Year 5 science lessons, providing an engaging activity for pupils to identify and explain the different phases of the Moon. Teachers can utilise this resource to reinforce understanding of our solar system and celestial bodies, directly supporting the UK National Curriculum's science objectives for this age group.
Foundation Task
Label the Moon phases: Draw arrows to match each Moon image to its name: New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter, Waning Crescent
Fill in the gaps: The Moon takes about _____ days to orbit the Earth. We see different phases because the _____ lights up different parts of the Moon.
Core Task
- Draw the 8 phases of the Moon in order in the boxes provided
- Explain why we see different Moon phases (use the words: Sun, light, orbit, reflect)
- If tonight is a Full Moon, what phase will it be in one week? Explain how you know.
- Why does the Moon appear to change shape even though it doesn't actually change?
Challenge Task
- Keep a Moon diary for one week — draw the Moon each night and label the phase
- Explain the difference between waxing and waning
- Research: What is a lunar eclipse? How is it different from Moon phases?
- Why do we always see the same side of the Moon from Earth?
Differentiation
SEN Support
Moon phase images provided for matching. Simplified gap-fill. Visual orbit diagram.
EAL Support
Labelled diagram of Moon phases. Key vocabulary: phase, waxing, waning, orbit. Paired discussion.
Gifted & Talented
Complete Challenge including lunar eclipse research. Explain tidal connections to Moon phases.
Key Vocabulary
Assessment Criteria
- Can name the 8 Moon phases
- Can explain why phases occur
- Can predict future phases