Phases of the Moon KS2

The phases of the Moon are one of the key concepts children learn when studying Earth and Space in KS2 Science. By observing the Moon over time, children discover that its appearance changes in a predictable cycle known as the lunar cycle.

Understanding the phases of the Moon helps children develop their knowledge of the relationship between the Earth, Moon and Sun, while also encouraging observation and scientific enquiry skills.

What Are the Phases of the Moon?

The phases of the Moon are the different shapes the Moon appears to have when viewed from Earth. Although the Moon itself does not change shape, the amount of its sunlit surface that we can see changes as the Moon orbits the Earth.

The Moon takes approximately 29.5 days to complete one full cycle of phases. This repeating pattern is known as the lunar cycle.

Why Does the Moon Change Shape?

A common misconception is that the Earth's shadow causes the Moon's phases. In reality, the phases occur because the Moon reflects light from the Sun. As the Moon moves around the Earth, we see different amounts of the illuminated side.

The Moon is always half lit by the Sun. The phase we observe depends on the positions of the Earth, Moon and Sun.

The Eight Phases of the Moon

Children studying the phases of the Moon in KS2 are often introduced to the eight main stages of the lunar cycle:

• New Moon – The illuminated side faces away from Earth, making the Moon difficult to see.
• Waxing Crescent – A small illuminated section becomes visible.
• First Quarter – Half of the Moon appears illuminated.
• Waxing Gibbous – More than half of the Moon is visible.
• Full Moon – The entire illuminated side faces Earth.
• Waning Gibbous – The illuminated area begins to decrease.
• Last Quarter – Half of the Moon appears illuminated again.
• Waning Crescent – Only a small illuminated section remains before returning to a New Moon.

Teaching the Phases of the Moon in KS2

The phases of the Moon are taught as part of the Year 5 Earth and Space programme of study. Children learn to describe the movement of the Earth and other planets relative to the Sun and explain how the Moon moves relative to the Earth.

By studying moon phases, children begin to understand how observable patterns can be explained through scientific models and evidence.

Moon Phases Activity Ideas

Hands-on activities can help children visualise why the Moon appears to change shape. Popular classroom activities include:

• Using biscuits to model the lunar cycle.
• Keeping a Moon observation diary over several weeks.
• Using a torch and ball to demonstrate how sunlight illuminates the Moon.
• Creating a Moon phases wheel.
• Sequencing images of the lunar cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many phases of the Moon are there?

There are eight recognised phases in the lunar cycle, from New Moon through to Waning Crescent.

How long does the lunar cycle take?

The lunar cycle takes approximately 29.5 days to complete.

What year group learns about the phases of the Moon?

The phases of the Moon are typically taught in Year 5 as part of the Earth and Space unit in the KS2 Science curriculum.

Does the Earth's shadow cause the Moon's phases?

No. The Moon's phases are caused by the changing positions of the Earth, Moon and Sun, which affects how much of the Moon's illuminated surface we can see.

Why is the Moon sometimes visible during the day?

The Moon reflects sunlight and can often be seen during daylight hours depending on its position relative to the Earth and Sun.