Tlingit Moon & Tide - Alaska Native Knowledge Network - University ...

Disi: the Moon Cycle
Overview
This activity will span at least 2 months to observe phases of
the moon and the predictable change in its shape. Start the
lesson around the time of a full moon. The moon’s cycle lasts
29.5 days. This is a good activity for the winter, when it is dark
during the beginning of the school day. Schedule your observations
for the same time each day.
Objective
The student will come to understand that the moon changes
in shape in a predictable pattern and cycle. Students will:
• Locate and observe the moon during the day
• Make observations to predict where the moon will be and
what it will look like
• Draw a conclusion on the cycle of the moon
Materials
• 8.5 x 14 paper (60 sheets)
• Clip board
• Marker
• Copy master for “How the Moon Changes” flip booklet
• Stapler
• Scissors or cutting board
Activity
• In advance, go outside and locate the moon, then find a
place where the students can see the moon without interference
from trees or buildings. Bring students to the same area
and have them generally look in the same direction.
• Sketch the horizon from the area where the students will
view the moon, for a standard sheet that can be reproduced.
Include trees, mountains, ocean, houses, etc., which will
serve as orientation points for the observation.
• Make 60 copies of this sketch so you can record the moon
(its place in the sky and its shape) each day that you go out
with your students.
• Each morning, go out to this location with the students and
have a different student record on a sheet of paper the
moon’s location and shape. Have the student date each sheet
as it is completed and hang or tape it up in the classroom in
chronological order.
Chapter 2—Dis: The Moon in Tlingit Culture • 21