Eclipse: How can the little Moon hide the giant Sun?

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In this activity, learners explore how distance can affect the way we perceive the size of an object. It also introduces learners to solar eclipses as well as the Sun and Moon's sizes and distances from Earth. This is a very simple activity using balls as models, making it accessible even for young learners. This resource also contains hints on how to use familiar objects to help learners visualize the sizes and distances of the Sun, Moon and Earth.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
free per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 4 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Demonstration, Model
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Astronomy
    • Earth Structure
    • Earth, Moon and Sun
      • Eclipses
    • Solar System
      • The Sun
      • The Moon
  • Mathematics
    • Measurement
      • Circles
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • be mobile
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • Public domain, NASA,