The Phases of the Moon: A Mini Unit Study

Teaching your kids facts about the moon or the phases of the moon might feel unnecessary in this day and age. But there are plenty of reasons that you would want to include lessons about the moon, the solar system, and astronomy in your homeschool class even for younger children.

Why Teach the Phases of the Moon?

Here are some reasons why you might choose to do a mini unit study about the phases of the moon:

It can help your kids understand natural cycles. The moon’s phases are part of the larger natural cycles that God has put in place to govern our world. By learning about the moon, kids can develop an appreciation for how these cycles influence life on Earth, such as tides and seasonal changes.
It can encourage your children to develop observation skills. Observing the phases of the moon encourages children to pay attention to the world around them. This practice can foster curiosity and a scientific mindset, helping them grasp the importance of careful thought in learning.
Teaching the phases of the moon informs cultural and historical significance. The moon has been a significant symbol in many cultures throughout history. (More on this a little bit later.) Teaching kids about the moon helps them understand its role in myths, calendars, navigation, and more.
It will help them develop a connection with nature. In a world increasingly dominated by technology, teaching children about the moon and its phases can help them reconnect with nature and develop a sense of wonder about the vast universe.
Learning about the phases of the moon invites awe for God. Incorporating scripture into your study about the moon, solar system, and astronomical events will increase your children’s knowledge of the God who made the heavens and the earth and who has a purpose for each thing he has made.

Quotes about the Moon

Another idea to incorporate into a unit study about the moon would include reading portions from classic writers and thinkers who have been inspired by the moon. Some have seen it as a symbol of mystery, change, or the passage of time. Here are a few examples you can share with your kids:

“It is the very error of the moon; she comes more nearer earth than she was wont, and makes men mad.” — Othello, Act 5, Scene 2
William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare often referenced the moon in his works, associating it with changeability and emotional influence. This quote from Othello could be used to introduce the concept that the moon, with its changing phases, has long been observed by humans and interpreted in a variety of ways.

“Now crescent, and now rounded in full orb, and now diminished, the opposite of all.” — Paradise Lost, Book V
John Milton

John Milton in Paradise Lost uses the moon as a metaphor for transformation and the cyclical nature of life. Milton also wrote from a deeply Christian perspective, and this line beautifully captures the phases of the moon, making it a poetic introduction to teaching kids about how the moon changes over time.

“The moon, by its very nature, has always aroused the curiosity of those who, eager to understand celestial phenomena, observe the heavens with their eyes.” — Sidereus Nuncius
Galileo Galilei

Galileo Galilei observed the moon through a telescope and his insights were groundbreaking. His scientific approach highlights the importance of curiosity and observation, making it a fitting reference for encouraging children to explore more about the universe.

The Moon’s Importance in Biblical Culture

Naturally, one of the most important reasons for teaching kids about science is to help them understand more about the God who created all things. This is why you might want to incorporate biblical history and context into any unit study about the phases of the moon.

The moon holds significant symbolism and importance in Jewish history and the Bible, where it is often associated with cycles, timekeeping, and God’s creation. Here’s a look at some of its symbolic meanings and key biblical references:

Symbolism in Jewish Tradition

Lunar Calendar: The Jewish calendar is a lunar calendar, where months are based on the cycles of the moon. The sighting of the new moon marks the beginning of each Jewish month, known as Rosh Chodesh. This emphasizes the moon’s role in marking time and the cycle of renewal. The monthly celebration of Rosh Chodesh is a time of reflection and renewal. Many scriptures note the importance of the new moon:
- “Then Jonathan said to David, To morrow is the new moon: and thou shalt be missed, because thy seat will be empty.” 1 Samuel 20:18
- “And to offer all burnt sacrifices unto the Lord in the sabbaths, in the new moons, and on the set feasts, by number, according to the order commanded unto them, continually before the Lord …” 1 Chronicles 23:31
- “He appointed also the king’s portion of his substance for the burnt offerings, to wit, for the morning and evening burnt offerings, and the burnt offerings for the sabbaths, and for the new moons, and for the set feasts, as it is written in the law of the Lord.” 2 Chronicles 31:3
- “Blow up the trumpet in the new moon, in the time appointed, on our solemn feast day.” Psalm 81:3

The Moon in Scripture

The moon is created by God as a “lesser light” to rule the night, alongside the sun which rules the day. This passage highlights the moon’s role in regulating time and its importance in the order of creation:

“And God said, ‘Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night. And let them be for signs and for seasons, and for days and years, and let them be lights in the expanse of the heavens to give light upon the earth.’ And it was so. And God made the two great lights—the greater light to rule the day and the lesser light to rule the night—and the stars.”
Genesis 1:14-16

God’s Covenant with Israel: The moon is used as a metaphor for the enduring covenant between God and Israel. Just as the moon is a constant presence in the sky, so too is God’s faithfulness to His people.

“It shall be established forever like the moon, even like the faithful witness in the sky.”
Psalm 89:37

The Moon as a Sign of God’s Power: The moon is part of God’s creation, serving a purpose in marking the seasons and demonstrating His power over nature.

“He made the moon to mark the seasons; the sun knows its time for setting.”
Psalm 104:19

The End Times and the Moon: In prophetic literature, the moon often symbolizes cosmic events and the coming of significant divine intervention. This verse in Joel is part of a prophecy about the Day of the Lord, where the moon’s transformation signals the nearness of God’s judgment.

“The sun shall be turned to darkness, and the moon to blood, before the great and awesome day of the Lord comes.”
Joel 2:31

Guidance and Protection: This verse speaks of a time when God’s healing will be so profound that the moon’s light will be like that of the sun, symbolizing restoration and divine blessing:

“Moreover the light of the moon will be as the light of the sun, and the light of the sun will be sevenfold, as the light of seven days, in the day when the Lord binds up the brokenness of His people, and heals the wounds inflicted by His blow.”
Isaiah 30:26

Importance of the Moon in Jewish Life

Rosh Hashanah: The Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, is celebrated on the first day of Tishrei, which is marked by the new moon. The moon’s cycle symbolizes renewal and a fresh start, reflecting the themes of repentance and new beginnings.
Passover and Sukkot: Both of these major Jewish festivals occur on the full moon, during the middle of the lunar month. The full moon’s light during these times symbolizes the fullness of God’s provision and guidance.

The Importance of the Moon in Other Cultures

The moon has been a powerful symbol in many other cultures as well, influencing stories, traditions, and beliefs. You might also want to share with your kids some ways the cultural symbolism of the moon has impacted different societies:

1. Myths and Legends

The Man in the Moon: Many cultures have stories about a figure who lives on the moon. In some tales, he’s a man who was sent to the moon as a punishment, while in others, he’s a friendly figure who watches over us at night.

These stories helped people explain the moon’s surface features, like its craters and dark spots. These legends show how people have always been curious about the moon and used their imagination to create stories that explain what they saw.

2. Calendars and Timekeeping

Lunar Calendars: Some cultures, like the Chinese and Islamic cultures, use the moon to help track time. They have special calendars based on the phases of the moon, which tell them when to celebrate important holidays like the Chinese New Year or Ramadan.

The moon helps people know when to celebrate important days, just like how we use a calendar to know when our birthdays or holidays are coming.

3. Cultural Festivals

The Mid-Autumn Festival: In China and other Asian countries, people celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival by gathering with their families, eating mooncakes, and admiring the full moon. This festival is all about giving thanks and enjoying time with loved ones under the bright moonlight. The moon brings people together for special celebrations, just like how families gather for holidays to enjoy each other’s company.

4. Symbol of Change and Growth

The Moon in Native American Cultures: Many Native American tribes have stories where the moon represents change, growth, and the passing of time. The phases of the moon remind them of how life changes and moves in cycles, like the changing seasons or growing up. You can explain to your kids that, just like the moon changes shape in the sky, we also go through changes as we grow up and experience new things.

5. Guidance and Navigation

The Moon as a Guide: Before modern tools, sailors and travelers used the moon to help them find their way at night. The moon’s light would guide them across oceans and deserts, making it an important symbol of direction and safety. The moon has always been like a nightlight in the sky, helping people find their way when it’s dark.

6. Inspiration for Art and Music

Moon in Art and Music: The moon has inspired countless artists, musicians, and poets. For example, the famous composer Beethoven wrote a beautiful piece called the “Moonlight Sonata,” and many paintings show the moon as a symbol of peace or mystery.

7 Books about the Moon

Here are some great books for kids that explore the moon and the phases of the moon:

1. Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me by Eric Carle

This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of a little girl who asks her father to bring the moon down for her. The story gently introduces children to the concept of the moon’s changing size and its phases in a whimsical and imaginative way.

2. The Moon Book by Gail Gibbons

Gail Gibbons is known for her informative and accessible children’s books, and The Moon Book is no exception. This book covers everything from the phases of the moon to lunar eclipses and myths about the moon, making it a great educational resource.

3. Faces of the Moon by Bob Crelin, illustrated by Leslie Evans

This book uses rhymes and engaging illustrations to explain the phases of the moon. It’s designed to be both fun and educational, helping children understand how and why the moon changes shape in the sky.

4. If You Decide to Go to the Moon by Faith McNulty, illustrated by Steven Kellogg

This imaginative book takes kids on a journey to the moon, describing what it would be like to travel there and live on its surface. The story also touches on the phases of the moon and what makes it so special.

5. Kitten’s First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes

This charming picture book follows a kitten who mistakes the full moon for a bowl of milk. While not directly about the phases of the moon, it’s a lovely story that introduces young children to the idea of observing the moon in the night sky.

6. The Moon Seems to Change by Franklyn M. Branley, illustrated by Barbara and Ed Emberley

Part of the “Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science” series, this book explains why the moon appears to change shape. It’s a straightforward, informative book that’s perfect for early elementary school children.

7. Phases of the Moon (Patterns in Nature) by Gillia M. Olson

This book is part of a series that explores patterns in nature. It provides a simple explanation of the moon’s phases with clear illustrations, making it a great resource for kids who are curious about how the moon works.

Teach the Phases of the Moon with Activities

Here are two free printables that can help you teach your children about the phases of the moon in a hands-on, visual way.

This first project is a phases of the moon diorama, which you can print out and incorporate into a unit study about the moon:

Download Printable Here

For some ideas on building dioramas, check out this volcano diorama or The Gruffalo Diorama.

This next project allows you to make foldouts of the phases of the moon. Your kids can also make them into bookmarks if they like.

The Phases of the Moon: A Mini Unit Study

Why Teach the Phases of the Moon?

Quotes about the Moon