Exploring Shadows and Cycles
Assessment
Even though catching a glimpse of a total solar eclipse in the United States might seem rare, solar and lunar eclipses occur several times every year. In this assessment, students develop and use models to describe the cyclic patterns of lunar phases and eclipses. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): 1. Develop a model that shows cause and effect relationships among components of the Earth-sun-moon system, eclipses, and lunar phases. 2. Use the model to demonstrate that the laws of nature cause patterns to be repeated under certain conditions. 3. Explain how these patterns can be used to make predictions about interactions in the Earth-sun-moon system.
Before April 8, 2024, there was a total solar eclipse visible in the United States on Aug 21, 2017. The next visible total solar eclipse in the continental United States will not occur until August 23, 2044. Even though catching a glimpse of a total solar eclipse in the United States might seem rare, solar and lunar eclipses occur a few times every year. Click Next to get started.
Topics and standards: Earth Science, MS-ESS1-1, ESS1.B, Earth in Space, ESS1.A, Orbital Patterns, Developing & Using Models, Patterns, Grades 6-8, 3D Science Tasks, Tuva Assessment Tasks, TEKS Science 6.9.A, TEKS Science 8.9.A, 8-ESS1-1, Assessment, 3.3.6-8.A