Context:

This assignment was created under the instruction of Jeff Goodman for GS 4401: Science and Science Technology in Elementary Schools in the Fall of 2007. 

In the class we recorded data based on what the moon looked like and it's position in the sky.

Impact:

This is an assignment that is very useful in almost any study of space in elementary grades.  It introduces students to taking real life data, and guides them in the interpretation of that data.  Students enhance their observation skills as well as learn how to communicate what they see in picture form and writing.  Although the assignment was completed by me for this course, it is a great example of an activity that will be used later in my teaching career. 

Alignment:

Standard 2: Indicator 2: Teachers have knowledge of geometry and measurement. Teachers:

• Understand construction of simple geometric figures,
• Understand and apply concepts of relative position and relationships and geometric formulas, and
• Model appropriate measurement systems in various settings (standard, nonstandard, and metric system) in measuring length, perimeter, area, capacity, volume, weight, angle, time, money, and temperature.

This indicator is met by the moon journal assignment because it incorporates collecting data with time and the relative position of the moon in the sky.

Standard 3: Indicator 3: Teachers have knowledge of basic earth science concepts including:

• Planetary astronomy (objects in the sky, changes in the earth and sky, and weather)

This indicator is met by the moon journal assignment because it ensures that teachers have knowledge of the phases of the moon and how the moon changes and moves in the sky relative to the earth.

Standard 12: Working alone, or with arts specialist teachers and/or other qualified arts professionals, elementary teachers are able to integrate the arts into the elementary curriculum.

Through the sketching of the moon in the moon journals, teachers are incorporating art into their curriculum, meeting this standard.