What Causes the Phases of the Moon?

Students often have misconceptions about certain science concepts. They occur naturally and they do not happen because a student is not intelligent. The human brain tries to fit information in an easy to digest construct, even though it is not accurate. Misconceptions are very difficult to break. The best way for students to break their misconception is to articulate their understanding and then try confront a demo or new piece of information that contradicts that misconception.

In the video some teachers are asked the question, "What causes the phases of the moon?" They then are asked to demonstrate their thinking and to explain how it works. An explanation and demonstration of how the phases of the moon actually happen takes place in the last third of the video.

Comments

[Luke]

I really like your demonstration! Students in your class are fortunate to have such a clever instructor to explain the moon phases!

[Tonya Prentice]

It's easy to see how students could have misconceptions of different science concepts. Every teacher explains and/or teaches these concepts differently. You never know what part of your lesson will "stick" in your student's head or how they will interpret the information you are giving them. I try to include a good visual along with hands-on activities with each concept.
Here is a great interactive video that I like to use with my students:
Phases of the Moon
http://www.wonderville.ca/asset/phases-of-the-moon