This learning resource is available in interactive and printable formats. The interactive worksheet can be played online and assigned to students. The Printable PDF version can be downloaded and printed for completion by hand.
This engaging science passage, 'The Moon: Earth's Companion,' is designed for Grade 4-5 students and aligns with NGSS general science standards. The passage explores the Moon's role as Earth's only natural satellite, explaining key concepts such as orbit, gravity, phases, and eclipses. Scientific vocabulary words are highlighted and defined, making complex ideas accessible to young learners. Real-world examples, like how the Moon affects ocean tides and nighttime light, help students connect science to everyday life. The content also includes a fun 'Did You Know?' fact to spark curiosity. Students can test their understanding with a multiple-choice quiz and deepen their learning through writing activities that promote explanation, connection, and analysis. All materials are audio integrated for accessibility. This resource is ideal for classroom instruction, homework, or independent study, providing a complete science learning experience on the fascinating topic of the Moon.
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"Captivating black and white image of the full moon showcasing intricate lunar details." by Pixabay / Pexels.
The Moon is Earth's only natural satellite. A satellite is an object that moves around a planet in space. The Moon is about one-fourth the size of Earth and is much smaller than our planet.
The Moon does not make its own light. Instead, it reflects light from the Sun. When we look up at night, we see the Moon shining because sunlight bounces off its surface. The Moon's surface is covered with craters, which are holes made by rocks called meteoroids that crash into it.
The Moon orbits, or moves around, Earth about once every 27 days. As it moves, the shape of the Moon we see changes. These different shapes are called phases. Some common phases are the full moon, new moon, and crescent moon. The changing phases happen because of the way sunlight hits the Moon as it moves around Earth.
The Moon has a strong effect on Earth. Its gravity helps control the tides in our oceans. When the Moon is overhead, it pulls on the water and causes the ocean level to rise. This is called high tide. The Moon also makes the night sky brighter and helps animals like sea turtles know when to lay their eggs.
Sometimes, the Moon blocks the Sun or passes into Earth's shadow. This is called an eclipse. During a solar eclipse, the Moon covers the Sun from our view. During a lunar eclipse, Earth’s shadow falls on the Moon, making it look dark or reddish.
Interesting Fact: The Moon is slowly moving away from Earth by about 3.8 centimeters each year!
What is the Moon?
Earth's natural satelliteA planetA starA comet
What causes the Moon to shine?
Reflected sunlightIts own lightStreetlightsStarlight
What are craters?
Holes from meteoroidsClouds on EarthMountainsOceans
Why do we see Moon phases?
Moon's movement around EarthClouds cover the MoonSun changes sizeEarth moves away
How does the Moon affect tides?
Gravity pulls ocean waterHeats the waterMakes it rainStops the wind
Which animals use the Moon’s light?
Sea turtlesCatsBearsFrogs
The Moon orbits Earth in 27 days.
TrueFalse
What does gravity mean?
Force pulling things togetherMaking lightCreating soundChanging colors
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